Henry denies insulting Nigeria, clarifying his viral “bad luck” shorts comment was a joke about kit mix-up during World Cup coverage

Former France international Thierry Henry has denied claims that he labelled Nigeria “bad luck” following a viral moment involving streamer IShowSpeed during FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage at Los Angeles Stadium on 15 June 2026.

Also read: De la Fuente reacts as Cucurella joins Real Madrid

The shorts controversy began after Henry joked about IShowSpeed wearing a mix of Nigeria’s shorts and a United States shirt during live commentary, a remark that quickly spread online and triggered criticism from some football fans.

Henry has now clarified that the comment was not directed at Nigeria in any negative way, insisting it was simply a playful observation about mixing national team kits.

“IShowSpeed had the shorts of Nigeria and the top of the US. I just told him it was bad luck to break the set,” Henry said. “It could have been the shorts of France, Italy or Spain, I would have said the same thing.”

The Arsenal legend added that the statement was misinterpreted and stressed that it was meant as humour in a live football setting rather than an insult to Nigeria or its supporters.

He further emphasised his respect for the country, noting that his comment was taken out of context amid the fast-paced nature of social media reactions during the World Cup.

“I was just having a little joke, not that Nigeria is bad luck,” he said. “I even said I love Naija. I have mad respect for Nigeria and the people there.”

Also read: Gvardiol Man City contract extension boost confirmed

The clarification has since helped calm online reactions, though the incident continues to highlight how quickly remarks from public figures can escalate during major global sporting events.