Former Netherlands footballer Rafael van der Vaart has publicly apologised after receiving criticism for making an inappropriate comment about Japan’s players during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The ex-Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid star, who was working as a television analyst for a Dutch channel, made the remark while discussing Japan’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their opening match.

Controversial comment triggers strong backlash

The 43-year-old became the focus of heavy online criticism after his post-match analysis of the Group F opener held in Dallas. While assessing the game, Van der Vaart made a remark suggesting that the Japanese players all “looked alike” as he attempted to explain Micky van de Ven’s difficulties in defending during the match.

While discussing Daichi Kamada’s late equaliser, Van der Vaart said on NOS: “The perfect corner is very difficult to defend. This one had the right pace, just over the five-yard line. With a bit of luck, it could have gone in, but the corner was excellent. They [the Japanese players] do look alike, of course, maybe he [Van de Ven] thought that… That’s a joke, of course. I hardly dare say anything.”

Van der Vaart issues public apology

After facing widespread criticism, Van der Vaart released a statement through his management team clarifying his comments and expressing remorse. He emphasised that his “joke” was not intended to offend or discriminate against Japan’s team or the Japanese community.

“I understand that some people found my words hurtful. I sincerely regret that. If I have upset people because of this, I offer my apologies. That was never my intention. I take the reactions that have arisen seriously and understand that words can be interpreted differently. Therefore, I think it is important to make it clear that there was no racist or discriminatory intent behind my statement. I hope this explanation provides more clarity about my intentions and the context in which the remark was made,” read his statement.

Criticism of Van Dijk and Netherlands’ performance

Van der Vaart’s controversial comment about Japan was not the only headline-grabbing moment during his analysis. He also delivered a sharp critique of Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk, comparing the Liverpool defender’s movement to that of a large aircraft following the team’s failure to secure a win in their tournament opener.

“I have to be honest: I was quite shocked by Van Dijk,” Van der Vaart said during the half-time coverage. “With him, I thought: that doesn’t look good. Especially while turning. It is proving very difficult. A bit like a Boeing 747 turning. I hope he starts turning a bit faster during the tournament.”

He further criticised Ronald Koeman’s team for being too passive and not applying enough pressure to secure the three points.

Next steps in Group F

The Netherlands will aim to move past the controversy when they face Sweden at Houston’s NRG Stadium on Saturday. Meanwhile, Japan will look to build on their spirited comeback performance against the Oranje as they head to Monterrey to take on Tunisia, who suffered a 5-1 loss to Sweden. A victory for Japan would significantly boost their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.

With an intense group stage ahead, fans are eager to see how far the Netherlands can advance in the World Cup.