Incident During Belgium vs Iran
Former Atletico Madrid striker Rade Bogdanovic has issued an apology after making racist comments about black players during a live broadcast on Serbian state television. The 56-year-old was working as an expert commentator for RTS during the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage match between Belgium and Iran when he questioned the concentration and stamina of black players.
The remarks came while discussing the red card shown to Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy in the 66th minute of the goalless draw in Los Angeles. 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 challenged by the host, Bogdanovic doubled down, insisting that "the majority lack concentration". The comments quickly drew widespread condemnation on social media.
Apology Issued
In a statement to Reuters, Bogdanovic said:
"I sincerely apologise for my statement regarding black football players."RTS also released an official apology, clarifying that Bogdanovic is not a permanent employee but had been hired as an "expert commentator" for the 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,"the broadcaster said.
Ngoy, 23, was sent off for a professional foul, leaving Belgium with ten men. The result leaves Roberto Martinez's side third in Group G after draws with both Iran and Egypt, and they are now in danger of failing to progress to the knockout stages.
Bogdanovic's Background and Continued Presence
Bogdanovic, who won the German Cup with Werder Bremen in 1999 and also played in South Korea and Japan, earned three caps for Yugoslavia in 1997. Despite the controversy, he was back in the RTS studio the following day for Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria in Group J.
The incident has reignited discussions about racism in football broadcasting and the responsibility of pundits during major tournaments. FIFA has yet to comment on the matter.
Key Takeaways
- Rade Bogdanovic made racist comments about black players' concentration during a World Cup broadcast.
- He apologised after widespread backlash, and RTS also issued an official apology.
- Bogdanovic continued to appear on air the next day despite the controversy.
- The incident occurred during Belgium's draw with Iran, with Belgium's Nathan Ngoy receiving a red card.
- The remarks highlight ongoing issues with racism in football media.
Quick Facts
Incident: Racist comments during Belgium vs Iran World Cup match
Commentator: Rade Bogdanovic, former Atletico Madrid striker
Broadcaster: RTS (Serbian state television)
Player targeted: Nathan Ngoy, Belgium defender
Outcome: Bogdanovic and RTS apologised; no official sanction yet
