Kelvin Cruz demands apologies from Haitian players for disrespecting Dominican sovereignty
The Minister of Sports, Kelvin Cruz, has raised his voice following the recent incidents that occurred within the framework of the Concacaf Nations League. The official was emphatic in pointing out that certain members of the Haiti national football team have an outstanding debt to the Dominican people, demanding a formal apology for statements he described as a lack of respect toward the nation and its sovereignty.
Those who should apologize to the Dominican people are the players who used a soccer match to express disrespectful opinions about our country, our citizens, and our Dominican sovereignty.
Kelvin Cruz, Minister of Sports
Controversial statements by the players
The minister’s criticisms focus mainly on the attitudes shown by forward Wilson Isidor and attacker Duckens Nazon. Following the sporting clash, both players issued messages through their digital platforms and public statements in which they questioned Dominican territorial integrity, stating that “Hispaniola is Haiti,” words that have not been well received by local authorities.
Restrictions in sports facilities
In light of the events that took place at the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium during the recent match, the Ministry of Sports has made the decision to restrict the Haitian team’s access to the country’s sports facilities. Cruz regretted that the hospitality provided by the Dominican Republic was not valued.
- The Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium suffered material damage, including a broken access door.
- The minister described the behavior of some fans as undisciplined and unacceptable.
- Authorities emphasized that state investment in sports infrastructure must be treated with respect by visitors.
Finally, Kelvin Cruz reiterated that his position is firm and that any attempt to divert the focus of his statements is a misrepresentation of the facts. The head of the sports portfolio concluded his speech by stressing that, above any sporting activity, the priority is to maintain absolute respect for the Dominican Republic.
