Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez found guilty of driving offence – just days after video sparked racism storm
CHELSEA star Enzo Fernandez has been convicted of a driving offence – just days after a video sparked a racism storm.
The footballer was swept up in a scandal after a video showed him and his Argentina teammates singing a vile song about the French national team.
Fernandez, 23, is now facing further misery after being found guilty of driving offences at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court.
The Chelsea star failed to identify the driver of a Porsche that allegedly drove through a red light while uninsured.
Fernandez was found guilty in his absence and will be sentenced at the same court on September 11 where he faces a driving ban.
Charges of driving through the red light and driving without insurance on November 28 were withdrawn.
It comes as Fernandez faces a 12 match ban as Chelsea continues an investigating into the midfielder.
A livestream sparked outrage after it featured a chant that dates back to the 2022 World Cup, when Argentina beat France in the final on penalties.
Fernandez filmed himself and his teammates singing the chant in the changing room after their Copa America final victory over Colombia.
He later apologised for any offence he caused, saying: “I want to apologise sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations.
“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.”
Fifa and Conmebol are also looking into the video, which was slammed by Fernandez’ Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana, who branded it “uninhibited racism”.
Chelsea also condemned the chant, saying: “Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable.
“We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.
“We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.
“The Club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure.”