Vander Vaart Apologizes After Remarks About Japanese Players

Former Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has apologized after his remarks that Japanese players appeared indistinguishable during the 2-2 draw with the Netherlands.

Van der Vaart, aged 43, was serving as a pundit for Dutch broadcaster NOS TV when he made the comment following Micky van de Ven’s failure to track Koki Ogawa’s run that led to Japan’s late equaliser.

“They all look alike, perhaps he assumed as much,” the former Netherlands international remarked while assessing Van de Ven’s defending.

Van der Vaart, who earned 109 caps and was a member of the Dutch squad that finished as runners‑up in the 2010 World Cup final, has apologized for any offense caused.

He said: “It was never my intention to offend, hurt, or discriminate against anyone. I oppose racism in all its forms and respect people of every background, ethnicity, and culture.

“I understand that some people may have found my words offensive or hurtful. I sincerely regret that.

“If my comment has caused pain or upset, I would like to offer my heartfelt apologies. That was never my intention.”

Anti‑discrimination organization Kick It Out criticised Van der Vaart and urged broadcasters to exercise greater caution.

A joint statement from Kick It Out and the Frank Soo Foundationexternal that supports East and South East Asian communities said: “It’s hugely disappointing to hear former players peddling racist slurs about Japan’s team and then double down by trying to defend the comments as a joke.

“Even if he claims there was no racist intent, the comments can still affect those involved and the broader East and South East Asian community, as seen in previous instances aimed at players.

“The World Cup draws massive global television audiences, making it essential for commentators to use careful language and for broadcasters to assume responsibility for their guests, whether through additional education or training.”

Source link