Hamrun Spartans players Henry Bonello and Rafael Compri have formally submitted letters of apology to the club’s General Secretary following their altercation at the end of Tuesday’s UEFA Europa League qualifying match against Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The club confirmed it had received both letters, in which the players took responsibility for their actions and expressed regret over the incident that overshadowed the team’s historic European progression. While not publicly released by the players themselves, the letters have now surfaced and offer insight into their internal response.
Rafael Compri wrote, “My behaviour was inappropriate, and I deeply regret allowing my emotions to result in a public incident.” He added that his experience at Hamrun has been “overwhelmingly positive,” and that he is “fully focused on continuing to contribute positively to the team.”
Henry Bonello, who captains the side, also addressed the General Secretary in his apology, stating, “My behaviour was completely unacceptable and out of line, and I take full responsibility for my actions.” He went on to say, “I allowed my emotions to take control, and I should have handled the situation with greater maturity and respect.”
Bonello acknowledged the reputational impact the incident had on the club, writing, “I am truly sorry for the reputational damage I have caused.” He reaffirmed his commitment to the club’s standards, pledging to do whatever it takes to “regain the trust of the Club and the respect of my teammates.”
The internal apologies come just hours after Hamrun Spartans issued a public statement condemning the incident. That statement, published by Malta Sport, underlined the club’s dedication to maintaining professionalism and discipline at all levels full story here.
