Neymar has published a lengthy statement
after the incident that took place between him and Alvaro Gonzalez during PSG’s
match against Marseille on Sunday.
“Yesterday I revolted. I was
punished with red because I wanted to hit someone who offended me. I thought I could
not leave without doing something because I realized that those in charge would
not do anything. Did not notice or ignored the fact. During the game I wanted
to answer as always, playing football. The facts show that I did not succeed. I
revolted…”
“In our sport, aggressions,
insults, swearing are part of the game, of the dispute. You can’t be
affectionate. I understand this guy partly. All is a part of the game. But racism
and intolerance are unacceptable.”
“I am Black, son of Black, grandson
and great grandson of Black also. I am proud and I do not see myself as
different from anyone. Yesterday I wanted those in charge of the game
(referees, assistants) to position themselves impartially and understand that
there is no longer such a place for a prejudiced attitude.”
“Reflecting and seeing all the
manifestation that happened, I am saddened by the feeling of hatred that we can
provoke when in the heat of the moment we snap.”
“Should I have ignored it? I don’t know
yet… Today, with a cool head, I say yes. But in due course my companions and I asked
the referees for help and we were ignored, that’s the point!”
“We who are involved in
entertainment need to reflect. An action led to a reaction and got to where it
did. I accept my punishment because I should have followed the path of clean
football. I hope on the other hand, that the offender will also be punished.”
“Racism exists, it exists. But we
have to stop it. No more, enough!”
“The guy was a fool. I also acted
like a fool for letting me get involved in that…I still have the privilege of
keeping my head up today. But we all need to reflect that not all Black and White
people are in the same condition. The damage from the confrontation can be
disastrous to both sides, whether you are Black or White. I don’t want to and
we shouldn’t mix subjects. Skin color we don’t choose. Before God we are all
equal.”
“Now…yesterday, I lost in the game
and I lacked wisdom…being in the center of this situation or ignoring a racist
act will not help. I know, but pacifying this “Anti-Racism” movement is our
obligation so that the less privileged will naturally receive their defense. We
will meet again and it will be my way, playing football…Stay in peace! Stay in
peace! You know what you said…I know what I did. More love to the world,” a
statement from Neymar read.
The investigation panel would reportedly
sit in the next few days to discuss the disciplinary measures on how to tackle
the incident that took place on Sunday’s Le Classique.
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