Source: REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach
[Saba Sports News] During the match between the Netherlands and Poland, some Dutch fans painted their faces black and wore wigs to imitate the famous Ruud Gullit. This behavior caused significant controversy. Blackface originated in the 19th century when white actors painted their faces black to imitate black people, often in a derogatory manner. Today, wearing blackface is considered a serious act of racial discrimination. In a recent interview, Dutch star Gullit said he was not offended by fans painting black faces to imitate him. On the contrary, he felt honored. Nathan Ake commented, “Honestly, I don’t think this behavior is a big deal. It’s outrageous to criticize it as racial discrimination. Gullit himself said he felt honored, so we shouldn’t make a fuss about it.”