Red Bulls forward steps away from team after using racial slur

Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir is stepping away from the team until further notice after using a racial slur in Saturday’s match against the San Jose Earthquakes.

The Red Bulls announced the news in a statement Tuesday.

Vanzeir also issued an apology. Via a statement from the Red Bulls:

“I want to sincerely apologize 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. 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.”

Major League Soccer is investigating the incident which is alleged to have happened during Saturday’s 1-1 draw between the Red Bulls and the San Jose Earthquakes in the 54th minute of play.

Earthquakes forward Jeremy Ebobisse said afterwards, via Alex Simon of The Mercury News: “What we saw tonight should not be a part of the game. The reason why I felt, after a lengthy conversation, that we should continue on with the game is because the player who said the word claimed that it was not aimed at any of us.”

MLS issued this statement:

Major League Soccer is aware of an incident wherein a New York Red Bulls player is alleged to have used language that violates league policy during the 54th minute of the New York Red Bulls vs. San Jose Earthquakes match. MLS has zero tolerance for abusive and offensive language and takes these allegations seriously. An investigation into this matter will begin promptly. Further information will be provided upon completion of that investigation.”

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The Red Bulls also released a statement on the matter:

The New York Red Bulls take these matters very seriously and promptly reported the allegations to Major League Soccer. We will cooperate with the League’s investigation.