DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Former German striker Sandro Wagner has come under fire for a disparaging remark he made about Qatari men’s traditional dress during a TV commentary during Sunday’s World Cup match between Germany and Spain.
Wagner was commenting on the teams’ 1–1 draw for German broadcaster ZDF when he said in the 79th minute that he thought one end of the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor was packed with German fans.
“Only then did I realize it’s the Qatari robes,” Wagner said
Wagner was referring to the thaub, the traditional long-sleeved white robes worn by many men in the region.
Wagner’s comments sparked outrage on social media.
ZDF responded to some complaints on Twitter with a brief statement: “Sandro Wagner’s comments about the thaub unfortunately took place during an emotional phase of the game. He is not allowed (to say so). We will talk about it.”
Wagner previously made eight appearances for Germany and played for Bayern Munich with a host of German clubs.
During the match, Qatari fans protested against the German team by covering their mouths while holding pictures of former German player Mesut Özil, a target of racist abuse in Germany following the team’s early exit from the 2018 World Cup.
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