New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir apologizes for using racial slur during match

New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir apologized for using a racial slur on the pitch Saturday during a match against the San Jose Earthquakes.

"I want to sincerely apologize to the players of the Earthquakes," Vanzeir said in a statement released by the Red Bulls on Monday. "I will do everything I can to be part of the change that needs to happen in this sport and our world. I also want to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the organization and our fans. I made a mistake and will take all the necessary steps to grow."

Vanzeir, who recently joined the team from Belgium, said that he meant no harm with his language, but acknowledges that he was wrong and will agree to any disciplinary action he receives. Major League Soccer is investigating the incident and has yet to hand down punishment.

In the 54th minute of the match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, a fight broke out on the pitch after Earthquakes striker Jeremy Ebobisse, who is Black, said he heard a racial slur. After the game, he did not identify the player who said the remark or who it was directed to. Video from the match shows Ebobisse turning around to face Vanzeir, seemingly in response to something he said, and then shoving him. Ebobisse said that the Earthquakes were considering leaving the game after the stoppage, which resulted in 21 minutes of extra time.

Red Bulls manager Gerhard Struber was criticized for keeping Vanzeir in the game after the incident. He also released a statement Monday.

"I made a decision that I thought was best given the information I had at that moment," he said. "While there was a lot of uncertainty at the time, with the information that I now know, the right decision would have been to immediately remove Dante Vanzeir from the game."

The club also called the events "unacceptable" and said the "words and inaction was inexcusable."

"We always strive for an environment that is inclusive and anti-racist," the Red Bulls said in a statement. "Our organization is committed to providing the resources to further educate our players and staff, as well as rebuilding trust within our community."

Last week, Romelu Lukaku, who plays for Inter Milan, called for action after he was on the receiving end of racist taunts during a Serie A game against Juventus. The Belgian soccer star was ejected from the game after he put a finger to his lips in response to the crowd.

On Monday, Earthquakes midfielder Cristian Espinoza posted a video that included his teammates holding up the same gesture as Lukaku to show their solidarity in a desire to end racism.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York Red Bulls Dante Vanzeir apologizes for using racial slur