Live

Repeat: Off The Ball

02:00 AM-05:00 AM

Repeat: Off The Ball
Advertisement
Soccer

Ezequiel Lavezzi apologises over Chinese photo gaffe

Argentina international Ezequiel Lavezzi has apologised after promotional photos taken of him for...



Ezequiel Lavezzi apologises ov...
Soccer

Ezequiel Lavezzi apologises over Chinese photo gaffe

Argentina international Ezequiel Lavezzi has apologised after promotional photos taken of him for the Chinese Super League were deemed 'racist' and offensive.

In a statement released over the weekend, Lavezzi apologised to the Chinese people for any offence caused.

"We were given instructions by the official photographer and I was trying to make some interesting photos by making some funny faces, which would be used afterwards for entertainment purposes."

"I had no intention of insulting the Chinese people and did not do it with any bad intentions... I deeply apologise if this photo has offended the Chinese public and fans. I will be more careful in the future."

Adding to Lavezzi's statement on Sunday, Hebei China Fortune added they would not be censuring their star player.

"The club has discussed this matter with Lavezzi, who said he meant no racial offence and apologised deeply for any harmful impression that it created."

Lavezzi joined Hebei China Fortune last year from Paris Saint-Germain. The 32-year-old is one of the highest paid footballers in the World earning a reported €500,000 each week. 

The striker has scored three goals this season in the opening stages of the league. Along with compatriot Carlos Tevez, Lavezzi is one of the most recognised players in Chinese football. 

 

Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!

Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.


Read more about

Soccer