Footballer Dante Vanzeir suspended for six matches for using racist language

New York Red Bulls' Belgian striker Dante Vanzeir has been suspended for six MLS regular season matches for using racist language during a match against the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday.

The 24-year-old striker was also fined an undisclosed amount and will be required to participate in mandatory training and education sessions. Vanzeir, who joined the club from Brussels side Union Saint-Gilloise in the winter transfer period, had earlier apologised for the incident and said he would take full responsibility and accept any possible suspension.

Vanzeir faced heavy criticism for allegedly using a racial slur during the match on Saturday. The game was stopped for 20 minutes after the incident. San Jose forward Jeremy Ebobisse said after the match that he did not believe the slur was directed at him, but described feeling hurt and powerless.

^{Dante Vanzeir during a match between Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and RFC Seraing, 30 October 2022 © BELGA PHOTO JOHN THYS}