Bill Belichic was denied the Presidential Medal of Freedom

New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said he had been denied the Presidential Medal of Liberty, the highest civilian decoration in America, because of the tragic events at Capitol Hill. .

The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Thursday, the announcement was made on Sunday.

“Recently, I had the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is an honor bestowed on me and the appreciation I have for the recipients. However, tragic things happened last week and I decided not to accept this decoration, ”the 68-year-old said in a press release.

Remember that the riots attacked Capital in the wake of controversial messages given by President Donald Trump on social networks. Five survivors were lost.

Belichick, a six-time Super Bowl champion as head coach, is a longtime friend of Trump. Without mentioning the name of the President, he condemned the recent events, and recalled that 2020 was a year of great debate about social justice.

“Above all, I am an American citizen and I have great respect for our country’s values, freedom and democracy. I know I will represent my family and the New England Patriots as well, ”said the coach.