Major League Soccer has suspended New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanjia for six regular season games for using racist language during Saturday’s game against the San Jose Earthquakes. Here’s what you should know:
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The incident appears to have occurred when the players gathered around referee Ismir Pekmich following a Judson foul. Earthquake centre-back Jonathan Mensah quickly turned to the referee and pointed at Van Zea, while forward Jeremy Evovis started pushing and screaming at Van Zea, but Van Zea was pulled away by Sean Neelis. Later, Vanzeir and his Ebobisse were seen talking.
The game was paused for 20 minutes as players, referees and coaches appeared to discuss the incident. After all, the game was restarted.
According to the team, Van Zeil spoke with his teammates on Tuesday morning and decided to leave to avoid further distractions. His decision came after he and the Red Bulls apologized Monday for an “unacceptable incident” that occurred during Saturday’s game.
In a statement, the club said, “Words and omissions are unacceptable and we believe they will never be tolerated. We will always strive for an inclusive and anti-racist environment.” Our organization is committed to providing resources to further educate our players and staff and rebuilding trust within our community.”
Van Zeil acknowledged his “mistakes” in a separate statement released by the Red Bulls on Monday and said he agreed with the suspensions, fines and counseling imposed by Major League Soccer and the team.
“I take full responsibility for my actions,” Van Zea said. “I didn’t mean to cause harm or offense with my words, but I know I did and I deeply apologize for that. I want to take this opportunity to improve myself and improve myself.” We spend time and effort working with organizations that address racial injustice.”
Red Bull manager Gerhard Struber addressed the media on Thursday. Struber described the incident as a “chaotic situation” and one he had never experienced before in his coaching career. He said the decision to keep Vanzeil out of the game was a difficult one as he received mixed information from players, staff and referees. Struver said Saturday’s incident was “a tough moment for me, too.”
“In the end, the decision period was too long,” Struber told reporters. “What I can say for sure now is that… Dante has to be taken out immediately. But it was also a very new situation for me in my coaching career. I don’t think it’s that easy, especially since it’s the first time I’ve faced that kind of direction.”
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(Photo: Vincent Carchietta/USA Today)
