Euphoria No Excuse – Lloris Reacts to Argentina Race Controversy

Hugo Lloris, former captain of the French national football team, has condemned the controversial song sung by certain members of the Argentina squad, deeming it an "attack on French people." Despite his strong disapproval, Lloris remains hopeful that the players involved will learn from their mistakes, according to BBC Sport.

The incident revolves around a video posted on social media by Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, which the French Football Federation alleges contains "racist and discriminatory language." FIFA has initiated an investigation into the matter. The video showcases several Argentina players celebrating their victory in the Copa America final by participating in a song that originally questioned the heritage of France's black and mixed-race players – a chant popular among Argentina fans.

Since the incident, Fernandez has publicly apologized for his actions. Lloris, France's most capped player, and the captain during their victorious 2018 World Cup campaign, expressed his shock at the behavior displayed.

Lloris emphasized that such conduct has no place in football, regardless of the excitement and euphoria of winning a major tournament. He stressed the increased responsibility champions bear in upholding values like non-discrimination and anti-racism. While acknowledging the possibility of unintentional mistakes, Lloris hopes that the Argentina players will understand the gravity of their actions and learn from this incident.

Now playing for Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer, Lloris watched from the United States as Argentina clinched the Copa America in Miami. He recalls the 2022 World Cup final, where France lost to Argentina in a penalty shootout, vividly highlighting the significance of the Argentine team in contemporary football culture – both within South America and globally. Despite acknowledging their footballing success, Lloris underlined the responsibility that comes with being a role models, particularly for young fans.

Lloris viewed the incident as a direct attack on the French people, particularly those with African origins and families. He emphasized the need for inclusivity and respect, pointing out that France represents diversity on and off the field. Former Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano defended Fernandez's actions, suggesting that misunderstandings and differences in cultural contexts may have contributed to the controversy. Mascherano, who supports an inclusive Argentina, denied that Argentinians are racist and argued that their country embraces people from all around the world.

While certain Chelsea teammates unfollowed Fernandez on Instagram to express their displeasure, Victoria Villarruel, Vice President of Argentina, took to social media to staunchly defend her country, declaring that no nation would intimidate them.

As reported by the SSP, Michael van Gerwen won World Matchplay's first round.