Racism Controversy Shadows Argentina National Football Team Amid Recent Wins
Argentina's national football team has become one of the most controversial and disliked teams globally, despite the presence of star player Lionel Messi. Their favorable treatment by referees in the last two World Cups has raised eyebrows, especially in light of FIFA's handling of other political issues. The controversy is also tied to antisemitism, with some extremists labeling Argentina as a "Zionist team," particularly after Egypt's elimination.
Sociologist Pablo Alberses highlights that Argentina's foundational myth as a predominantly European immigrant society has fostered deep-seated racism, which manifests in football culture. He references two songs illustrating this issue: one from the 1980s celebrating European heritage over indigenous or African roots, and another created by ultras during the 2022 World Cup mocking France's African-descended players and including transphobic slurs against Kylian Mbappé.
The latter song became central to a scandal when a video surfaced showing Argentine players, including Enzo Fernandez, singing it on their team bus after winning the 2023 Copa America final against Colombia. The players were aware of the song's offensive content, as evidenced by a call to stop the live video. The chant, originating from far-right fan groups, was condemned in France as racist. Chelsea, Fernandez's club, responded by initiating disciplinary action and emphasizing education on the matter.
Despite the backlash from some black players and international observers, no Argentine players publicly condemned the racist chant. Fernandez remains a national hero after scoring the winning goal against Egypt, and the issue has created a divide between him and some teammates. Expectations are that Argentine fans will continue singing provocative songs against England and its black players in upcoming matches, with little likelihood of punishment or serious public discussion if Argentina continues to win.
This ongoing problem reflects broader societal issues in Argentina, where racism persists both on and off the pitch, complicating the team's international image despite its sporting successes.
