Argentina faces calls for discipline over team singing 'racist' song about France players

Argentina’s national soccer team could face disciplinary action after players were recorded singing a racist and derogatory song about France during the celebrations on the team’s bus after winning the Copa America 2024 final.

The French Football Federation released a statement Tuesday, stating the intention to file a lawsuit and get FIFA involved.

“The president of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, strongly condemns the unacceptable racist and discriminatory comments made against the players of the French team as part of a song sung by players and supporters of the Argentina team after its victory in Copa America, and broadcast on social networks,” the statement said.

“Faced with the seriousness of these shocking remarks, contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the president of the FFF decided to directly challenge his Argentine counterpart and FIFA to file a lawsuit for abusive remarks of a racial and discriminatory nature.”'

Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez live-streamed the team’s Copa America title celebrations early Monday morning, before a teammate yelled at him to stop the recording.

Fernandez issued an apology on social media late Tuesday afternoon. 

“I want to apologize sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations,” Fernandez said. 

“The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations. That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character. I am truly sorry.” 

Argentina's federation has yet to comment on the French statement or the players singing the song.

Argentina beat Colombia to win Copa America 2024, and beat France in the 2022 World Cup final