Former Real Madrid star forced into racism apology after Japan World Cup remark

News

Robin Bairner | Chief Editor

Accredited football journalist and editor covering the game since 2006

Former Netherlands international midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has apologised for comments that he made after his nation’s World Cup clash against Japan, but the former Real Madrid and Tottenham star insists there was no racist intent behind his words.

Van der Vaart was a member of the Dutch side that was defeated 1-0 by Spain in the 2010 World Cup final but has since found fame as a pundit, often drawing criticism due to his outspoken remarks.

This crossed the world following the Netherlands’ opening World Cup encounter with Japan. After Daichi Kamada’s equaliser with two minutes left, Van de Vaart claimed that Mickey van de Ven lost his man because Japanese people ‘all look alike’.

With the studio having fallen silent, he subsequently added: “That’s a joke of course. I’m scared to say anything at all.”

The Dutchman’s remarks were met with outrage from Japanese fans, who accused the pundit of racism.

Van de Vaart subsequently issued an apology via The Athletic.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

'Most players are stupid there' - A history of controversial remarks

Van der Vaart was criticised for a similar incident in March, when he made comments about the Morocco national team.

He told Studio Voetbol on NOS (via FCUpdate): “I don’t want to be mean, but all Moroccans who aren’t good enough here in the Netherlands are going to play for Morocco.”

Later, he would double down on these comments on Ziggo Sport, stating: “Morocco has become slightly better than before.

“But the Netherlands simply has a much better squad. If you draw Morocco, you have a good draw.”

In 2025, meanwhile, he took aim at the Premier League, claiming it is overrated.

“The Premier League ain’t all that, most players are stupid there. But because of how close the fans are to the pitch, the people at home get the idea it’s a fast-paced league. But trust me, footballing wise, the Premier League ain’t all that,” he said of England’s top-flight.

Van der Vaart back for Sweden game

Van der Vaart will be back at work for NOS during their coverage of the Netherlands’ next World Cup fixture, which will see them face Sweden on Sunday, according to De Telegraaf.

NOS Sport editor Xander van der Wulp told NPO Radio 1: “It’s good that he sees he need to take these signals seriously.”