Singapore’s Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, David Neo, has issued an apology after referring to Hong Kong football players and fans as “idiots” following a historic 2027 Asian Cup qualifier.
In a video shared on Instagram by one of the national team players, Neo was seen congratulating the Singapore squad in the changing room after their 2-1 win in Hong Kong — a victory that secured Singapore’s first Asian Cup appearance since 1984. During his remarks, he commented that the home crowd were “bloody idiots” and added that Hong Kong’s players “played like idiots”, while praising Singapore’s team for performing “like lions”.
His comments quickly drew backlash online, overshadowing the national team’s accomplishment. Responding to a critical comment on Instagram, Neo expressed regret, stating that he “should have been more respectful” and retracted his remarks.
He went on to acknowledge the Hong Kong team’s strength and the passion shown by their supporters, calling for mutual respect in sportsmanship and encouraging unity behind Singapore’s national team, known as the Lions.
Both Singapore’s Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and Hong Kong’s football association have yet to comment further on the issue.
