Van der Vaart apologizes for Japan comment during broadcast
6 reported
Former Tottenham and Netherlands midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has apologized after saying that Japan players "all look alike" during a 2-2 draw between the Netherlands and Japan. Van der Vaart, 43, made the remark while working as a pundit for Dutch broadcaster NOS TV, analyzing a play where Micky van de Ven lost Koki Ogawa's run for Japan's late equalizer. The former Netherlands international, capped 109 times and part of the 2010 World Cup final team, issued a statement saying it was never his intention to offend, hurt, or discriminate against anyone. He stated he opposes racism in all forms and has respect for people of every background, ethnicity, and culture. Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out and the Frank Soo Foundation criticized Van der Vaart, calling for broadcasters to be more careful with language and to take responsibility for guests on their shows.
What’s reported
Rafael van der Vaart said Japan players "all look alike" during a 2-2 draw between the Netherlands and Japan.
He was working as a pundit for Dutch broadcaster NOS TV at the time.
The comment was made after Micky van de Ven lost Koki Ogawa's run for Japan's late equalizer.
Van der Vaart, 43, is a former Netherlands international with 109 caps and part of the 2010 World Cup final team.
He apologized, stating he opposes racism and respects all backgrounds, and regretted any offense caused.
Kick It Out and the Frank Soo Foundation issued a joint statement criticizing the comments and calling for broadcasters to be more careful.
Key figures
Rafael van der Vaart, former Tottenham and Netherlands midfielder, pundit for NOS TV
Micky van de Ven, Netherlands defender
Koki Ogawa, Japan player
Kick It Out, anti-discrimination charity
Frank Soo Foundation, charity supporting East and South East Asian communities
Sources: BBC News
