Texans’ McNair apologizes for use of phrase ‘China virus’

HOUSTON (AP) — Houston Texans chairman and CEO Cal McNair has apologized for referring to the novel coronavirus as the “China virus” during the team’s charity golf tournament in May. The phrase was used frequently by former president Donald Trump. It was considered by many to be insensitive to Asians because it placed blame on China for the COVID-19 pandemic. Bally Sports reported Tuesday that McNair used the phrase while addressing more than 100 participants in the golf tournament. In a statement, McNair said he made “an inappropriate choice of words.” He said he apologized at the time and is apologizing again.