Former Netherlands midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has apologised for offensive comments made about Japan's national team during the 2026 World Cup.
Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart has issued a formal apology following a wave of backlash over offensive comments made during the 2026 World Cup .
The ex-Tottenham and Real Madrid midfielder was working as a pundit for a Dutch broadcaster when he made a controversial remark regarding the appearance of Japan’s players after their 2-2 draw with the Oranje.in Dallas. During the post-match breakdown, Van der Vaart suggested that the Japanese players all "looked alike" as he attempted to explain Micky van de Ven’s struggles during the match. : "The perfect corner is really very difficult to defend.
This one came with the right speed, just over the five-yard line. With a bit of luck it would have gone in, but the corner was amazing. They do look alike, of course, maybe he thought that… That’s a joke, of course. I hardly dare say anything.
"Following widespread condemnation of his remarks, the former playmaker released a statement through his management team to clarify his position and express regret. He was keen to stress that despite the nature of his "joke," he did not intend to be discriminatory toward the Japan squad or the Japanese community.
"I understand that some people found my words hurtful. I sincerely regret that. If I have upset people because of this, I offer my apologies. That was never my intention.
I take the reactions that have arisen seriously and understand that words can be interpreted differently. Therefore, I think it is important to make it clear that there was no racist or discriminatory intent behind my statement. I hope this explanation provides more clarity about my intentions and the context in which the remark was made," the statement read. The remark about Japan was not the only sharp critique from Van der Vaart during the broadcast, as he also.
The pundit compared the Liverpool defender's mobility to that of a heavy aircraft after the Oranje failed to secure a victory in their tournament opener.
"I have to be honest: I was quite shocked by Van Dijk," Van der Vaart admitted during the half-time analysis. "With him, I thought: that doesn’t look good. Especially while turning. It is proving very difficult.
A bit like a Boeing 747 turning. I hope he starts turning a bit faster during the tournament.
" He further criticised Ronald Koeman's side for sitting back and failing to "push harder" to secure the win. The Dutch will look to put the drama behind them when they face Sweden at Houston’s NRG Stadium on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Japan will aim to build on their impressive comeback performance when they travel to Monterrey to face Tunisia - who are coming off a 5-1 defeat against Sweden - knowing that a victory would put them in a strong position to advance from the group.
Please follow us on Google to support us Japan Sweden R. Van Der Vaart World Cup Netherlands Vs Japan Netherlands Vs Sweden
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
World Cup 2026: The VAR decision that dumbfounded the world's best refsFrance are left stunned at the decision not to award a penalty as Kylian Mbappe goes down under Sadio Mane's tackle.
Read more »
World Cup 2026: Pub bookings surge by 300% for England’s World Cup kick-offBookings for pub arrivals up to two hours before England’s opener against Croatia on Wednesday are up 293%, according to technology provider Zonal.
Read more »
England have the best player in the world – this World Cup will be our timeEngland begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia with former goalkeeper David James predicting how far they go in his new column.
Read more »
Haaland reacts to 'best in the world' claims after World Cup doubleErling Haaland scored twice on his World Cup debut for Norway, but the Man City striker insists there are other strikers doing better work in front of goal
Read more »