Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association (FA) following comments he made regarding Spurs captain Son Heung-min during a media interview this summer. Bentancur, who later apologized for his remarks, has until September 19 to respond to the charge.

The controversy stems from an interview Bentancur gave to a Uruguayan TV station, where he appeared to make an inappropriate joke, stating that all South Korean people “look the same.” The comments went viral, prompting Bentancur to issue a public apology to Son on Instagram, describing it as a “very bad joke.”

The FA’s statement explained that Bentancur is alleged to have breached FA Rule E3.1 by acting in an improper manner and using abusive or insulting language. The charge is further considered an “aggravated breach” under FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference to nationality, race, or ethnic origin.

In his Instagram apology, Bentancur addressed Son directly, writing, “[Sonny] brother! I apologise to you for what happened, it was just a very bad joke! You know I love you and I would never disrespect you or hurt you or anyone else! I love you brother!”

Tottenham Hotspur quickly addressed the incident, releasing a statement that featured comments from Son. The Spurs captain stated that he had spoken with Bentancur, acknowledging the mistake but also emphasizing that the two players had moved past it. “Lolo would not mean to ever intentionally say something offensive. We are brothers and nothing has changed at all,” Son said.

Tottenham’s statement also underscored the club’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. “Following a comment from Rodrigo Bentancur… the club has been providing assistance in ensuring a positive outcome in this matter. This will include further education for all players in line with our diversity, equality, and inclusion objectives.” The club added that they fully support Son’s desire to move forward and focus on the upcoming season.

While Bentancur’s comments were regrettable, the Uruguayan has made efforts to address the situation and apologize both privately and publicly. The FA’s charge highlights the importance of maintaining respect and sensitivity within the game, especially regarding matters of race and nationality.