Dante Vanzeir steps away from Red Bulls after racist remark

New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir addressed his teammates on Tuesday and stepped away from the club "to avoid further distractions," the team announced.

Vanzeir's departure comes after the Belgian international apologized for using a racial slur during New York's 1-1 draw with the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday night. The Red Bulls also apologized for the language used during the match.

San Jose striker Jeremy Ebobisse said an unnamed New York player used a racial slur in the 54th minute of their match. The remark led to a lengthy delay and almost caused the Earthquakes to walk off the pitch. Per Ebobisse, a 26-year-old of Cameroonian descent, the Earthquakes opted to play the remainder of the game because the slur wasn't directed at anybody in particular.

MLS announced that it is investigating the incident.

"I want to sincerely apologize to the players of the Earthquakes," Vanzeir said in a statement released by the Red Bulls. "I will do everything I can to be part of the change that needs to happen in this sport and our world. I also want to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the organization and our fans. I made a mistake and will take all the necessary steps to grow.

"I accept full responsibility for my actions. While I did not intend to cause any harm or offense with my language, I know that I did and for that I am deeply sorry."

The Red Bulls issued a similar statement as an organization, and coach Gerhard Struber admitted that he should have pulled Vanzeir from the match.

"During our match on Saturday, I made a decision that I thought was best given the information I had at that moment," Struber said in a statement. "While there was a lot of uncertainty at the time, with the information that I now know, the right decision would have been to immediately remove Dante Vanzeir from the game."

Vanzeir, 24, has one goal in six appearances (one start) this season.