DFB denies racism claims

Özil quits Germany over allegations

Berlin – The German Football Association (DFB) yesterday rejected claims of racism against their president Reinhard Grindel made by Mesut Özil in his announcement that he has retired from international football.

“We reject the notion that the DFB is associated with racism,” read a statement.

“The DFB stands for diversity, from the representatives at the top to the boundless, day-to-day dedication of people at the base.”

On Sunday, Özil announced his retirement from international duty in a statement, which accused Grindel of racism, when he broke his silence over his controversial meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May.

“In the eyes of Grindel and his supporters, I am German when we win, but I am an immigrant when we lose,” wrote Özil, a 2014 World Cup winner, who accused Grindel of failing to side with him against his critics.

The DFB said they regretted Özil’s decision to quit international football, but firmly rejected his accusations against Grindel.

“The DFB is very grateful to Mesut Özil for his outstanding performance in the jersey of the German national teams,” continued the statement.

“It is regrettable that Mesut Özil felt that he had not been sufficiently protected as a target of racist slogans.” the DFB concluded.”

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“I want to commend the championship committee of the IBO for sanctioning a young and courageous boxer like Leone because he will bring out the best of Gideon.”

Tshabalala warned that if Buthelezi cannot sweep Leone aside, then he cannot even begin to dream of facing WBC, WBA and IBF champions.

The 32-year-old left-handed champion from Boipatong in the Vaal will bid for the fourth defence of the belt he won in 2015.

Buthelezi has chalked up 20 wins in 25 fights.

Their bout on Friday will headline Xaba Promotions and Events’ four-title event which will be a box-and-dine affair.

The tournament will also feature a WBA and four IBFsanctioned bouts.