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The British human rights organization Kick It Out has taken active measures in response to the racial discrimination experienced by Son Heung Min (Tottenham) from a teammate.
On June 20, Kick It Out stated, “We have received many reports about Rodrigo Bentancur’s racially discriminatory remarks directed at his teammate Son Heung Min. Based on these reports and various pieces of evidence, we have communicated the seriousness of this issue to Tottenham and the relevant authorities.”
“Bentancur should be aware of a problem with his remarks. This is an incident that can greatly affect not only East Asians but also a broader category of individuals,” they added.
Before participating in the 2024 Copa America, Bentancur appeared on his national broadcast, responding to the host’s request to get Son’s uniform by saying, “Sonny’s? It could be Sonny’s cousin, too, as they all look the same.”
Bentancur and the host laughed as they had this conversation, which implied racial discrimination that all Asians look the same. This is a representative racial discrimination act against Asians, along with a slant-eye gesture. Fans strongly criticized Bentancur’s remarks. Bentancur quickly apologized to Son through social media, saying, “Sonny, brother! I apologize for what happened; it was a very bad joke. You know I love you, and would never disrespect or hurt you or anyone else! I love you, brother!”
So far, Son has not officially responded to Bentancur’s apology. Tottenham remains silent on Bentancur’s remarks.
Kick it Out is an organization founded in 1997 to eliminate racial discrimination in football and has been actively involved in such efforts.
They had previously supported Son when he faced racial discrimination from opposing fans and some commentators.