Italy manager Cesare Prandelli has apologised for saying that Mario Balotelli was the only player allowed out of the team hotel in Brazil because he is black.

Security advisors told the squad they should not leave during protests that have marred the Confederations Cup. Prandelli said the AC Milan striker was permitted to leave the hotel because his "colour is different to ours".

But he later said: "I'm sorry. It was a joke. Of course." It emerged that former Manchester City striker Balotelli was involved in charity work, helping children from some of Salvador's poorest areas. "Before I said something about the colour of our skin," added Prandelli. "I am glad we clarified that issue about why he was the only one allowed out. "He was surrounded by all these people but he was working with a charity and doing something nice."

www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23012368

I know Prandelli has issued an apology but it obviously shows what his mindset is. It is really just a reflection of how bad racism is in Italy and many European countries. Shame on Prandelli for a man of his position and how does he expect to command the respect of Balo if that is how he views Balo .....