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Former Tottenham midfielder Raphael van der Vaart has apologized after saying Japan’s players “all look the same” when they play. 2-2 draw with the Netherlands.
Van der Vaart, 43, was working as a pundit for Dutch broadcaster NOS TV when he made the comments after Miki van de Ven beat Koki Ogawa for Japan’s late equaliser.
“They all look the same, of course, maybe he thought that,” said the former Netherlands international when analyzing Van de Ven’s defence.
Van der Vaart, who was capped 109 times and was part of the Dutch side that lost the 2010 World Cup final, apologized for any offence.
He said: “It was not my intention to hurt, offend or discriminate against anyone. I oppose all forms of racism and respect people of every background, race and culture.
“I understand that some people may find my words offensive or hurtful. I am sincerely sorry
“If my comments caused pain or hurt, I sincerely apologize. It was not my intention.”
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out criticized van der Wert and called on broadcasters to be more careful.
Kick It Out and its joint statement Frank Sue Foundation, outsiderA charity which supports the East and South East Asian community, said: “It’s very disappointing to see ex-players making racist abuse about the Japan team and then doubling down trying to defend the comments as a joke.
“Even if he claims there was no racist intent in what he said, the comments can still impact those involved and impact the wider East and Southeast Asian community, as we’ve seen with previous examples directed at players.
“The World Cup attracts a huge global TV audience, so it’s always important that guests take care of their language and broadcasters take responsibility for their show attendees, whether through extra education or training.”
