Kick It Out Demands Clarity from FIFA and Conmebol on Enzo Fernandez's Controversial Video
Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out has pressed FIFA and Conmebol for updates on the investigation into a video of Chelsea captain Enzo Fernandez singing an alleged racist and transphobic chant after Argentina's Copa America victory.
Original Source
BBC Sport
Written by
Steve Worrell
Kick It Out (KIO) has urged FIFA and Conmebol to clarify whether any action has been taken against Enzo Fernandez following the circulation of a video in which he and other Argentina players were seen singing a discriminatory chant. The incident, which occurred during post-Copa America celebrations, prompted public backlash and an apology from Fernandez, but KIO contends the lack of transparency undermines global efforts to combat discrimination in football. The group highlighted disparities in disciplinary responses, comparing Fernandez's case to that of Tottenham's Rodrigo Bentancur, and called for consistency in addressing such incidents.
- KIO's Letter to FIFA and Conmebol: KIO expressed concerns over the apparent inaction and lack of transparency in investigating Fernandez’s conduct, calling it a failure to uphold accountability.
- Disparities in Disciplinary Action: KIO compared the handling of Fernandez’s case to Rodrigo Bentancur’s FA ban for a similar incident, emphasizing the need for consistent global standards.
- Fernandez’s Response and Chelsea’s Stance: Fernandez apologized for the incident, citing "euphoria" as a factor, while Chelsea pledged to educate him and launched an internal disciplinary process.
- Impact on Communities: KIO stressed the importance of addressing such incidents to prevent alienation of affected communities and maintain credibility in tackling discrimination.
- FIFA and Conmebol's Silence: Both organizations have yet to provide clarity on the investigation's progress, despite FIFA’s initial statement that the matter was "being looked into."
More On This Story
Sources covering the same article appear below 👇
Photo Credit
Getty Images
Written by
Steve Worrell
Steve, Co-founder of The 1905 Club, created the platform to provide honest, clickbait-free Chelsea FC content. He worked at Stamford Bridge from 2013 to 2016 with a Champions League sponsor. His first Chelsea match was a 1-0 win at Leeds in 2000, and his favourite was the epic 2012 Champions League game against Napoli.
