Thierry Henry has issued a public apology to Nigerian football fans after remarks he made during a 2026 World Cup broadcast provoked widespread criticism on social media.

The former Arsenal and France striker was working as a pundit for FOX Sports alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic when internet personality IShowSpeed appeared on screen during coverage of the United States' 4-1 win over Paraguay. IShowSpeed was wearing a Nigerian shorts paired with a US Men's national team jersey.

Henry remarked on the mixed kit, telling IShowSpeed: "I love Nigeria, but not today. Today is USA for you." When IShowSpeed questioned what the issue was with Nigeria, Henry added: "Nigeria is great."

The situation escalated after Paraguay equalised against the US. Henry suggested that IShowSpeed had brought bad luck by mixing the kits — a comment many Nigerian viewers saw as offensive and disrespectful.

Henry's video clarification

The backlash prompted Henry to release a video addressing the controversy directly. "I needed to clarify something because I don't think people understand when you say stuff sometimes or when a joke is a joke," he said.

Henry insisted that his remark was about the fashion clash, not a dig at Nigeria, and that his response would have been identical regardless of which nation's kit was involved. "Could have been the shorts of France, Italy or Spain — I would have said the same thing," he explained.

The 1998 FIFA World Cup winner went further to express genuine affection for the country. "I even said that I love Naija. And by the way, I do. I have my respect for Nigeria and the people there — a lot of Arsenal fans out there, by the way."

He concluded his message on a firm note: "Nigeria is never bad luck. I was just saying breaking the set is bad luck with any other shorts."

Henry's long ties to Nigerian football

Henry's connection to Nigeria runs deep. During his celebrated spell at Arsenal, he won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups alongside Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu. He also shared a Ligue 1 title-winning dressing room with former African Player of the Year Victor Ikpeba at AS Monaco.