Former France captain Hugo Lloris recently spoke out about the controversial song sung by some Argentina players after their victory in the Copa America final. Lloris described the song as an “attack on French people” and expressed his hope that the players involved would learn from their mistake.
The incident involved Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who is now facing sanctions from his club and an investigation by FIFA for posting a video on social media that allegedly contained “racist and discriminatory language.” The video showed several members of the Argentina squad singing a song that questioned the heritage of France’s black and mixed-race players.
In response to the controversy, Lloris emphasized the importance of taking responsibility, especially as winners of an important tournament. He condemned any form of discrimination and racism in football, stating that such behavior has no place in the sport.
As a former captain of the French national team and a player with extensive experience, Lloris highlighted the significance of being a role model, particularly for younger generations. He acknowledged Argentina’s success in football but stressed the need for responsible behavior, particularly in moments of celebration.
Former Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano defended Fernandez, stating that the situation had been taken out of context. Mascherano emphasized that Argentines are not racist and described the country as inclusive and welcoming to people from diverse backgrounds.
Despite the controversy, Fernandez has received support from his Chelsea teammates and others in the football community. Mascherano, who now serves as the manager of Argentina’s Under-23 team, vouched for Fernandez’s character and urged understanding of cultural differences in interpreting jokes and comments.
Overall, the incident involving the Argentina players’ song has sparked discussions about racism, discrimination, and cultural sensitivity in football. It serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect in sports, regardless of nationality or background. Victoria Villarruel, the vice-president of Argentina, also defended her country against criticism, asserting that Argentina remains steadfast in its values and principles.