**Title: Former Footballer Rade Bogdanović Issues Apology Following Controversial Remarks During World Cup Broadcast**
*Published on 23/06/2026 - 13:38 GMT+2*
In a recent incident that has drawn widespread condemnation, former La Liga striker Rade Bogdanović issued an apology for a racist comment made during a World Cup match broadcast. The remarks, made while he was serving as a pundit for Serbian television, have sparked outrage across social media platforms.
During the World Cup fixture between Belgium and Iran, which ended in a 0-0 draw, Bogdanović questioned the focus and concentration of Black players, stating, “I've always said those players - and I'm really not racist - but Black players lack the concentration to last more than 60 to 80 minutes.” He further elaborated that during his playing career, there were instances where teammates needed protection to prevent them from making mistakes.
The comments were met with immediate criticism, prompting a fellow pundit to challenge Bogdanović's assertions. Despite the pushback, Bogdanović maintained that he was generalizing and suggested that “the majority lack concentration.” His remarks were perceived as perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Black athletes, leading to a significant backlash online.
In response to the controversy, both Bogdanović and the state broadcaster RTS have issued apologies. The former footballer, who had a notable career playing for clubs such as Atlético Madrid and Werder Bremen, expressed regret over his comments, acknowledging their inappropriateness.
Bogdanović's career includes three appearances for the Yugoslav national team, with his debut occurring in 1997. His comments came at a critical moment in the tournament, as Belgium and Iran both found themselves with two points in Group G, with one match remaining. Egypt currently leads the group following a 3-1 victory over New Zealand.
The incident has reignited discussions about racism in sports, particularly in football, where the issue has been a persistent challenge. Fans and commentators alike have called for greater accountability and sensitivity from those in positions of influence, particularly during high-profile events such as the World Cup.
As the tournament progresses, Belgium will face New Zealand in their final group match, with the outcome crucial for their advancement to the knockout stages. The fallout from Bogdanović's comments may serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for awareness and education around issues of race and representation in sports.
The World Cup continues to captivate audiences worldwide, but incidents like this highlight the importance of respectful discourse and the responsibility of public figures to foster an inclusive environment.