Africa-Press – Lesotho. South Africa men’s national football team coach Hugo Broos has issued an apology following remarks that were criticised as racially suggestive and sexist by a local political party.
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) called on Friday for the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to investigate the comments after Broos made the remarks during a media briefing. He was responding to questions about defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who had failed to board a flight to the national team’s training camp.
During the briefing, Broos used an expression that drew public backlash, prompting the UDM to raise concerns on a local radio station. The following day, the SAHRC confirmed it was reviewing the complaint and reminded the public that hate speech is not allowed under South African law.
The Belgian coach publicly apologised, admitting that his wording had been inappropriate.
“My choice of words was wrong, and I am sorry,” Broos said, adding that the controversy had affected his family as well. He stressed that he has a long history of working with people of different racial backgrounds, including players and colleagues in Nigeria, Cameroon and South Africa.
“People may have different opinions about me as a coach, but no one who knows me will say that I am a racist,” he said.
