Serbian TV pundit apologizes for racist comments about black players

Former Atletico Madrid and Werder Bremen striker Rade Bogdanovic has apologized for racist comments he made about black players during a live World Cup broadcast on Serbian state television. The remarks, which drew widespread condemnation on social media, occurred while Bogdanovic was working as an expert commentator for broadcaster RTS during the goalless draw between Belgium and Iran in Group G.

Incident during World Cup broadcast

Bogdanovic, 56, made the comments while discussing a red card issued to Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy in the 66th minute. Ngoy, 23, was dismissed for a professional foul in the second half of the match played in Los Angeles. During the discussion, Bogdanovic said: "I have always said those players - and I'm really not racist - but black players lack the concentration to last more than 60 to 80 minutes. When we played, we sometimes had to protect our own players to stop them making mistakes."

The host challenged Bogdanovic over the remarks, but he doubled down, insisting that "the majority lack concentration." The comments quickly sparked outrage on social media platforms.

Apology and broadcaster response

In a statement to Reuters, Bogdanovic said: "I sincerely apologise for my statement regarding black football players." RTS also issued an official apology, stating that Bogdanovic is not employed by the company but has been working as an "expert commentator" for this summer's tournament. "We would like to take this opportunity to apologise, as a broadcaster, for the statement made in our programme concerning members of a particular race," RTS said.

Background on Bogdanovic

Bogdanovic, who made three appearances for Yugoslavia in 1997, also played for clubs in South Korea and Japan during his career. On Monday, he was back in the RTS studio for Argentina's 2-0 win against Austria in Group J.

Match context

Belgium, who have drawn with both Iran and Egypt, are in danger of failing to progress from Group G. The team currently sits in third place in the group standings.