Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero has apologised for referring to Inter’s Indonesian owner Erick Thohir as ‘that Filipino’.
The film producer made the comment when discussing Massimo Moratti’s recent decision to resign as the Biscione’s honorary president.
“It’s not right that Moratti was treated this way,” the 63-year-old told the Stadio Sprint programme on Rai Sport.
“I am very sad for him. I had told him: kick out that Filipino…
“He came from Indonesia to insult a symbol of football.
“I like Thohir, really, but nobody must insult Moratti.”
Ferrero later said he ‘did not mean to disrespect’ Thohir, Inter directors or the people of the Philippines through a statement on the official Sampdoria website.
“I did not want to show a lack of respect for Mr Thohir, the Inter directors or the people of the Philippines, who I have always had a wonderful rapport with.
“I was trying to praise Massimo Moratti and all he has given to Inter and Italian football for twenty years.
“He also brought Italy’s most recent international trophies, exporting our sport in the world.”
