Veteran fan apologizes after slapping Cubs fan for anthem

A physical confrontation between two fans over standing for the national anthem at a Chicago Cubs game has sparked widespread debate after a video of the incident went viral. The altercation occurred at Wrigley Field on Sunday, July 19, 2026, during a game between the Cubs and the Minnesota Twins. The man who struck the other fan, identified as Robert "Bob" Chavez, a 79-year-old Vietnam War veteran, has since spoken publicly about the event, expressing regret for his actions while maintaining his stance on the anthem.

The video shows Chavez, seated behind a younger, unidentified fan, demanding that the man stand during the performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner." After the fan refused, Chavez is seen slapping him in the back of the head. The younger fan then stood up. Chavez explained his initial reaction in interviews, stating he was upset by the perceived lack of respect. He told Inside Edition he was asking the fan to "please stand up, you know, have some respect."

Chavez, however, has expressed deep regret for resorting to physical violence. He acknowledged that while he served to protect people's rights, the fan had a right to remain seated. "Even though I fought in...