Dante Vanzeir used the word ‘monkey’ thinking it meant ‘clown’ in MLS racism row

New York Red Bulls striker Dante Vanzeir has revealed he said the word ‘monkey’ in the belief it meant the same as ‘clown’ in the racism row that has shamed Major League Soccer.

In an interview in his native Belgium, Vanzeir said he accepts his $10,000 fine and six-game ban and wants to rebuild his reputation for the recent incident that has shamed Major League Soccer.

Speaking to Sporza, the 25-year-old Vanzeir said: ‘I’ll tell you exactly how it went.

‘The referee blows his whistle for a foul, after which I enter into a discussion with him. Afterwards I’m still grumbling to myself about the ref. I said then monkey, but in the sense of clown, dummy. Because I thought he made the wrong decision.

‘It never even occurred to me that that word would be offensive to one of my opponents. I was grumbling to myself and misjudged the impact of that word. In our language, that word is often used with an intent which is not racist at all.’

Dante Vanzeir has spoken out about his role in the racism row that has stunned MLS 

Vanzeir underlined his desire to return to Red Bulls after his ban, despite a furious reaction to the incident by Red Bulls fans. 

‘I made a mistake, but I hope that the fans can forget me and welcome me back to the field. Because it is still my greatest passion. I want to experience great moments with the club and the fans.

‘I fully accept that penalty. In that period I can process everything, take the necessary steps and, above all, rebuild the trust towards my teammates, the club and fans. I want to show that I am a good guy, that I am in my head and heart I am free from racism.’

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