Real Madrid’s Huijsen Apologizes for Offensive Social Media Post

Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen has issued an apology on the Chinese social media platform Weibo after sharing content on Instagram that was deemed offensive by Chinese users. The incident has sparked criticism and calls for a more comprehensive response from both the player and the club.

Controversial Post and Apology

The controversy arose when Huijsen, 20, reshared an image that referenced Asian physical features, accompanied by comments that users described as racist. The post, which has since been deleted, alluded to the shape of Asian eyes. Huijsen subsequently released a statement in Chinese on Real Madrid’s official Weibo account.

“I sincerely apologize to my Chinese friends. I previously unintentionally forwarded content that included offensive messages. It was totally unintentional and I regret the discomfort caused,”

according to reports from ESPN and Marca.

Criticism and Calls for Further Action

Despite the apology, Chinese fans have expressed dissatisfaction with its scope, questioning why the statement was limited to Weibo and not issued on other international platforms or through a video message. Yahoo Sports reports that fans are demanding a more substantial public response.

Previous Incidents Involving Real Madrid and Chinese Fans

This is not the first time Real Madrid has faced backlash in China. In 2024, a video featuring a Madrid supporter before the Champions League final was described as “insulting toward China, vulgar and of bad nature” by the Chinese Embassy in Spain. At that time, Real Madrid condemned the video and stated it did not represent the club’s values. ESPN detailed this previous incident.

Ongoing Investigations

The Huijsen apology comes as Real Madrid awaits the outcome of a UEFA investigation into allegations of racist abuse directed at their player, Vinícius Júnior, from Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni. ESPN reported on this concurrent investigation.

Key Takeaways

• Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen apologized on Weibo for sharing offensive content on Instagram.
• The apology has been met with criticism from Chinese fans who seek a more comprehensive response.
• This incident follows a previous controversy in 2024 involving a Real Madrid supporter and offensive content.
• Real Madrid is currently awaiting a UEFA investigation into alleged racist abuse against Vinícius Júnior.