Henry Apologizes to Nigerians for Controversial Comment in 2026 World Cup Context

Arsenal legend and former France striker Thierry Henry has issued an apology to Nigerian supporters following remarks he made during a 2026 World Cup broadcast that sparked backlash on social media.

The comments were made on Saturday while Henry was a pundit for FOX Sports, co‑commentating with former Swedish international Zlatan Ibrahimović as the United States beat Paraguay 4‑1.

During the match, internet personality IShowSpeed appeared on screen wearing Nigerian shorts paired with a U.S. men’s national team jersey.

Henry told the streamer, “I love Nigeria, but not today. Today is USA for you.” When IShowSpeed asked what was wrong with Nigeria, Henry replied, “Nigeria is great.”

After Paraguay equalised, Henry added that the streamer had brought bad luck, a statement many Nigerian viewers found offensive and disrespectful.

The remarks drew criticism across social media, prompting Henry to release a video in which he clarified 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 champion said in the video.

He explained that his comment was about the outfit mismatch rather than any slight against Nigeria, adding that he would have made the same remark about any other nation’s kit.

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

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 has won two Premier League and two FA Cup titles with Arsenal, and he also celebrated a Ligue 1 title with AS Monaco alongside former African Player of the Year Victor Ikpeba.

By James Agberebi