Chelsea initiate disciplinary action against Enzo Fernandez following Racial Slur - What Punishment he may get?

Add as a preferred source on Google

Football embodies emotion, but sometimes, the players are required to control it to avoid potential blunders.

Argentina international Enzo Fernandez failed to curb his enthusiasm for a moment and now must be lamenting his actions as the player faces serious allegations and scrutiny over racial slurs.

Chelsea have initiated disciplinary measures after Enzo Fernandez appeared in a video where Argentina's Copa America-winning squad seemed to sing about French players with African heritage. FIFA is also investigating the incident following the French football federation's complaint over "racist and discriminatory remarks."

Fernandez expressed regret, stating he was "truly sorry," while Chelsea condemned discriminatory behaviour as "completely unacceptable."

The Premier League club emphasised its commitment to diversity and inclusion, noting, "We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome."

They acknowledged Fernandez's apology and saw it as an educational opportunity. But FIFA President Gianni Infantino reiterated the need for a zero-tolerance approach to racism within soccer. And this means the Argentine won't get away easily on this matter.

What did Enzo Fernandez do?

The incident occurred after Argentina defeated Colombia 1-0 in Miami Gardens, Florida. A video posted on Instagram showed Fernandez and his teammates chanting about France's team during their celebrations. Similar chants had surfaced among Argentina fans before their World Cup final victory over France in 2022.

Chelsea responded after France defender Wesley Fofana, a clubmate of Fernandez with family ties to Ivory Coast, shared the video on social media. Fofana labelled it as "uninhibited racism." Several Black French players, who are part of Chelsea's first-team squad, didn't talk with the Argentine for weeks in the aftermath of the racial slur.

What can happen to Enzo Fernandez?

It remains uncertain what jurisdiction FIFA holds over incidents occurring on a team bus post-tournament. However, they may intervene if the Argentina federation's response is deemed inadequate. FIFA confirmed they are aware of the circulating video and are looking into the matter.

The derogatory chants targeted French players of African descent holding French passports. Fernandez admitted he got caught up in the excitement of their Copa America celebrations but stressed that his actions did not represent his true self.

If he is proven guilty, the Argentina international can have a tripartite issue on him. The Argentine can face a ban and monetary fines from multiple authorities.

FIFA

Enzo can face a ban for up to 2 years along with a hefty fine of around 10,000 Francs.

Conmebol

The Argentine can be suspended for a minimum of five matches or a period of at least two months.

FA (Football Association)

Apart from educational courses and monetary fine, Enzo can be handed a 6 to 12 match ban.