2026 W/Cup: Henry Apologises To Nigerians Over Controversial Remark

Legendary Arsenal and France forward Thierry Henry has apologised to Nigerian fans after comments he made during a 2026 World Cup broadcast sparked backlash on social media.

The incident occurred on Saturday when Henry, speaking as a pundit for FOX Sports alongside former Swedish international Zlatan Ibrahimovic, was covering the United States’ 4-1 victory over Paraguay.

In the course of the broadcast, popular internet streamer IShowSpeed appeared on screen wearing Nigerian shorts together with a US Men’s national team jersey.

Commenting on the mixed outfit, Henry told IShowSpeed: “I love Nigeria, but not today. Today is USA for you.” When IShowSpeed asked what was wrong with Nigeria, Henry quickly added: “Nigeria is great.”

However, after Paraguay equalised against the US, Henry said that the streamer had brought bad luck, a comment that many Nigerian viewers found offensive and disrespectful.

The remarks drew criticism across social media, which led Henry to release a video clarifying his intentions.

Also Read: Arsenal Are The Most Solid Team In The Champions League, Henry

“I needed to clarify something because I don’t think people understand when you say stuff sometimes or when a joke is a joke,” the 1998 FIFA World Cup title winner said in the video.

He stated that his comment was about the fashion mismatch rather than any slight against Nigeria, adding that he would have said the same about any nation’s kit.

“Could have been the shorts of France, Italy or Spain, I would have said the same thing,” he explained.

Henry, who won the treble with Barcelona under Pep Guardiola in 2009, was emphatic in his affection for Nigeria.

“I even said that I love Naija. And by the way, I do. I have my respect for Nigeria and the people there, a lot of Arsenal fans out there, by the way.” He concluded: “Nigeria is never bad luck. I was just saying breaking the set is bad luck with any other shorts.”

Henry won two Premier League and two FA Cup titles with Suoer Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu.

Also, he alongside former African Player of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, won Ligue 1 with AS Monaco.