Argentina's football culture has been marred by controversy as racist chants against French players resurface during celebratory events. River Plate supporters have been caught up in a cycle of problematic behavior, echoing sentiments that have drawn criticism in the past. The situation escalated when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, a former River Plate player, inadvertently became part of the controversy during his return to the club after winning the Copa America. Despite his apologies and acknowledgment of the offensive nature of the chants, the incident has reignited discussions around racism in football.
The recent events followed a pattern of troubling behavior from Argentine supporters, particularly after significant victories. The chants directed at players of African descent on the French team have drawn ire not only from the public but also from football institutions. Fernandez's apology was a step towards accountability, but Chelsea's decision to initiate disciplinary proceedings highlights the seriousness of the situation. This is not the first time Argentine celebrations have been marred by racist undertones, as similar incidents occurred during the World Cup celebrations in December 2022.
