New York Red Bulls' Dante Vanzeir steps aside after racist incident

Belgian footballer Dante Vanzeir has stepped aside indefinitely from his team the New York Red Bulls. The decision followed a racist incident during last weekend's match against the San Jose Earthquakes.

During the match, striker Vanzeir made a racist remark to an opposing player, which he later admitted to. The match was halted for 20 minutes after the incident.

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

The Red Bulls also released a statement on Monday, calling the incident "unacceptable".

The striker, who joined the club from Brussels side Union Saint-Gilles in the winter transfer period, spoke to his teammates on Tuesday, the club announced on Twitter.

^{© PHOTO SIPA USA}