new york red bulls Forward Dante Vanzeir will step down from the team indefinitely after he admitted to using a racial slur during a game against the San Jose Earthquakes over the weekend, the soccer club announced Tuesday.
the red bulls issued a statement on social media announcing the decision, just one day after Vanzeir posted a statement apologizing for his actions.
Dante Vanzeir #13 of the New York Red Bulls during the match against the San Jose Earthquakes during the game on April 8, 2023 at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. (Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
«Dante Vanzeir addressed his teammates this morning and, to avoid further distractions, he will step away from the club until further notice.»
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San Jose forward Jeremy Ebobisse has alleged that a Red Bulls player used a racial slur early in the second half of the two teams’ 1-1 tie at Red Bulls Arena on Saturday. A scuffle ensued, causing a lengthy delay that resulted in 21 minutes of extra time at the end of the match.
While Ebobisse did not name anyone, Vanzeir issued an apology Monday.
New York Red Bulls’ Dante Vanzeir #13 reacts to his first official playing time after the Major League Soccer game against Nashville SC at Red Bull Arena on March 4, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Ira L. Black – Corbis/Getty Images)
«I want to sincerely apologize to the Earthquakes players. I will do everything I can to be a part of the change that needs to happen in this sport and in our world. I also want to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the organization and our fans. I made a mistake and I will take all the necessary measures to grow,» Vanzeir’s statement, provided by the team, read.
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«I accept full responsibility for my actions. While I did not intend to cause any harm or offense with my language, I know I did and I am deeply sorry.»
Vanzeir added that he would agree to any discipline ordered by the league and the team.
The Red Bulls also issued a separate statement on Monday, calling the incident «unacceptable.»
New York forward Dante Vanzeir (13) dribbles the ball during the MLS game between the New York Red Bulls and Atlanta United FC on April 1, 2023 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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«Words and inaction [were] inexcusable, and we believe that there is never a place for it. We always strive for an inclusive and anti-racist environment. Our organization is committed to providing the resources to further educate our players and staff, as well as rebuild trust within our community.»
The league said Sunday that it was investigating the incident.
Associated Press contributed to this report.