Bastian Schweinsteiger has moved to defend himself after his commentary during the 2026 North America World Cup sparked accusations of racism.
What happened?
Bastian Schweinsteiger described Ivory Coast's style of play as "a little African football," adding that it was "somewhat atypical, rough and at times not tactical."
The remarks drew immediate criticism, with many accusing him of a racist attitude that dismissed African football and its players.
Why it matters for Bastian Schweinsteiger
Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Fae said the comments "could be called racist" and added that he hoped they were "merely careless and clumsy."
Bastian Schweinsteiger issued a statement through ARD on Sunday, saying, "I was not talking about people — I was talking about football."
What comes next?
ARD rallied behind Bastian Schweinsteiger, with the broadcaster's sports coordinator saying his remarks were "a summary of his experience and observations about Ivory Coast's style of play," describing them as "a footballing assessment, not a comment about people."
German linguists cautioned about the dangers of such language, with Kersten Sven Roth, a professor at the University of Magdeburg, telling the German football magazine Kicker that while the remarks could not immediately be classified as racist outright, they were "closer to a stereotype that can cause misunderstanding."
Bastian Schweinsteiger is regarded as one of Germany's all-time greats, having earned 121 caps and scored 24 goals for the national team.
He was also a member of the squad that won the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
The controversy erupted after Bastian Schweinsteiger's comments on Ivory Coast's style of play, with many calling for him to apologize or clarify his statements.
Bastian Schweinsteiger's statement was an attempt to calm the situation, but the issue remains a topic of discussion in the football world.
The 2026 North America World Cup has been marked by several controversies, including the one surrounding Bastian Schweinsteiger's commentary.
The incident has sparked a wider debate about racism in football and the need for commentators to be more mindful of their language.
Bastian Schweinsteiger's experience and observations about Ivory Coast's style of play were meant to be a footballing assessment, but they were perceived as racist by many.
The situation highlights the importance of careful language and consideration in football commentary.
Bastian Schweinsteiger's career has been marked by many achievements, including his time as a member of the German national team.
He has played for several top clubs, including Bayern Munich and Manchester United.
Bastian Schweinsteiger's commentary on the 2026 North America World Cup has been widely discussed, with many focusing on his comments about Ivory Coast's style of play.
The controversy surrounding Bastian Schweinsteiger's commentary has sparked a wider debate about racism in football.
The incident has highlighted the need for commentators to be more mindful of their language and to avoid making statements that could be perceived as racist.
Bastian Schweinsteiger's statement was an attempt to clarify his comments and to calm the situation, but the issue remains a topic of discussion in the football world.