Serbian football pundit's remarks on Black players' focus spark controversy, accused of racism

2026 World Cup Key News

(Taipei, June 23, CNA) Former Yugoslavia and Atlético Madrid striker Rade Bogdanovic has sparked controversy in Serbia, stating during the World Cup match between Belgium and Iran that "Black players lack focus after 60 to 80 minutes."

According to AFP, Bogdanovic, 56, made the remarks on a World Cup program broadcast by Serbia's national public broadcaster, Radio Television of Serbia (RTS), late yesterday, while discussing the red card received by Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy in the 66th minute.

Bogdanovic said, "I've always said this, I'm really not a racist, but Black players lack the focus to last more than 60 to 80 minutes."

He added, "When we are playing, sometimes we have to protect our own players from making mistakes."

The host questioned Bogdanovic about these remarks, but the former national team striker immediately stood his ground, emphasizing that "most people lack focus."

His comments immediately drew widespread attention and condemnation on social media.

However, RTS has yet to comment or apologize for Bogdanovic's remarks and had him back in the studio the following day to serve as a regular expert analyst for the Argentina vs. Austria match.

Bogdanovic played 3 matches for the Yugoslavia national team in 1997.

Belgium and Iran drew 0-0 in their Group G match held in Los Angeles, placing Iran second in the group standings and Belgium third, with both teams vying for advancement to the next stage. (Compiled by Li Pei-shan) 1150623

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