World Cup 2026: Netherlands broadcaster Rafael van der Vaart apologizes after saying all Japanese players 'look alike'

Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder — and current NOS TV commentator — Rafael van der Vaart apologized Wednesday after making an ill-advised comment while breaking down Netherlands 2-2 draw with Japan on Sunday. During an appearance on NOS TV, van der Vaart was responsible for an awkward moment in the studio after he said all Japanese players “look alike.” On Wednesday, van der Vaart said he never meant to “insult, hurt, or discriminate against anyone,” according to The Athletic. A portion of van der Vaart’s apology read: “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.” The incident occurred as van der Vaart was breaking down Japan’s late goal against the Netherlands. Van der Vaart criticized Micky van de Ven for his role in the goal, saying van de Ven “lost [his defender] completely.” Later in the segment, van der Vaart added, “They do all look alike of course, perhaps he thought that”. That comment was met with silence, leading to van der Vaart eventually adding, “That’s a joke of course. I’m scared to say anything at all.” Van der Vaart is a former player who spent nearly 20 decades in the game. After starring with Ajax early in his career, van der Vaart eventually joined Real Madrid and Tottenham. He spent his final three professional seasons in the Danish Superliga. Following his playing career, van der Vaart spent a few years as an assistant coach before joining NOS TV as an analyst.