Dutch broadcaster NOS TV's pundit Rafael van der Vaart made an offensive remark about Japanese players during analysis of the Netherlands' 2-2 World Cup group stage draw with Japan. While reviewing Netherlands defender Micky van de Ven's positioning on Japan's late equalizer, van der Vaart said: 'They all look alike, of course, maybe he thought that.'
The 43-year-old former Tottenham midfielder and 109-cap Netherlands international issued an apology. Van der Vaart stated: 'It was never my intention to offend, hurt, or discriminate against anyone. I oppose racism in all its forms and have respect for people of every background, ethnicity, and culture. I understand that some people may have found my words offensive or hurtful. I sincerely regret that.'
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out and the Frank Soo Foundation, which supports East and South East Asian communities, issued a joint statement criticizing van der Vaart and calling for broadcasters to exercise greater responsibility during World Cup coverage. The charities 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.'
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