Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea start internal disciplinary procedure after midfielder’s ‘racist video’

Chelsea have “instigated an internal disciplinary procedure” following Enzo Fernandez’s video posted on social media, which the French Football Federation alleges is racist.

Fernandez and some of his Argentina team-mates were chanting a derogatory song which mocks the heritage of the France team in an Instagram live video published on his account after they beat Colombia in the Copa America final on Sunday.

Wesley Fofana, Fernandez’s Chelsea team-mate, reposted the video on X with the words: “Football in 2024: uninhibited racism”.

Fernandez later apologised on Instagram for posting the video and any offence its content may have caused.

On Wednesday morning Chelsea released a club statement: “Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.

“We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.

“The club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure.”

Sky Sports News understands Chelsea had to speak to Fernandez first to make sure the video and audio were real and, when that was confirmed, the club immediately started an internal disciplinary procedure.

Sky Sports News understands FIFA has begun its investigation into the incident and will look to speak to Fernandez.

A FIFA spokesperson said: “FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone including players, fans and officials.”

Sky Sports News understands that French Football Federation President Philippe Diallo has communicated to FIFA that they will not accept a slap on the wrist.

Later on Wednesday, Chelsea striker David Datro Fofana, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Burnley, posted on social media: “The football that I like is multi-ethnic.

“Racism in all its forms should be condemned in the strongest possible terms. These acts have no place in football or even anywhere else.

“This fight really needs to be taken seriously by everyone involved in this sport.”

Source: Skysport