Devdiscourse News Desk| Buenosaires
Argentina was confirmed as the world's No. 1 team in the FIFA men's rankings on Thursday, but the celebration was overshadowed by a racist chant targeting No. 2-ranked France.
The controversial chant, mocking the African heritage of some France players, drew widespread condemnation, prompting Argentina's vice president to defend the national team against critics.
On Wednesday, Argentina fired a sports official who had called for apologies from Lionel Messi and the Argentine Football Association's president. FIFA and English club Chelsea have launched inquiries into the incident.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized a zero-tolerance policy on racism in soccer, while players like Wesley Fofana of Chelsea and Jules Koundé of France voiced their objections to the offensive chant.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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