GB Hockey Apologises For Anthem Error
Great Britain Hockey has offered a full and unreserved apology to the South African women’s team after the apartheid anthem Die Stem was played before a London Cup match.
The South African Hockey Association said: ‘This incident robbed our team of what should’ve been a moment of pride.’
GB Hockey explained: ‘The error was made by a contractor responsible for sports presentation at the event.’
The London Cup is taking place throughout the week, with South Africa defeating the hosts 3-1 on Tuesday evening.
Marissa Langeni, chief executive of the South African Hockey Association, added that the country ‘watched with disbelief as our team stood through what clearly was a most embarrassing and uncomfortable experience’.
British counterpart Sally Munday told the BBC: ‘Standard procedure would be to check anthems to be played with visiting teams in advance, however, on this occasion that did not happen and Great Britain Hockey accepts full responsibility.’
‘Great Britain Hockey and its contractor appreciate the sensitive nature of this unfortunate mistake and we apologise unreservedly for the offence caused.’
