Fox Sports' decision on Michael Strahan's punishment over National Anthem controversy divides Internet

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA: Fox Sports appears to have finally addressed the growing calls for Michael Strahan's dismissal after he was seen with his hands clasped near his waist instead of placing his hand over his heart during the National Anthem.

The controversial moment took place while the former New York Giants player was hosting 'NFL on Fox' at Naval Base San Diego ahead of Veterans Day. Many felt Strahan's unusual hand placement during the National Anthem was disrespectful toward the military and undermined the patriotic significance of the occasion.

Will Fox Sports punish Michael Strahan for the National Anthem controversy?

According to Daily Mail, Fox Sports has decided not to take any action against Michael Strahan for his controversial conduct.

A source shared, "His peers have his back and understand that he wasn't making the moment about himself. There isn't going to be any type of punishment or fine going Michael's way."

They also provided insight into Strahan's current mindset, saying, "He may address it, but he is weighing his options because he never thought this would have ever been a thing. He knows the man he is, and he almost doesn't want to address the controversy to give it more life."

"Michael wants Veterans Day to be for those men and women who deserve it and deserve the praise, to be in the conversation this way and to extend the talk on what people think he was doing, it would be a disservice to what the day means," added the tipster.

In defense of Strahan, they remarked, "It was never addressed in the moment. All of this came later when the trolls got on it. You have to think, imagine all the times you are at a game or an event that has the National Anthem and you are asked if you are able to rise, to do so."

The source explained that Strahan viewed his gesture as similar to what others do during the National Anthem, suggesting it was not intended to be disrespectful.

"Everyone in those stadiums or rooms are all people that don't all have their hand over their heart, including yourself. It doesn't mean that you are disrespecting anything, it is just what happens in the moment," noted the mole.

They continued, "Michael was in the moment and in no way shape or form objecting to the moment at hand. This was an internet controversy that was never in his thoughts to start."

"Michael looks forward to be removed from this controversy as soon it has been created, he is going to live his life and worry about what he can control, that is all that he hope for," concluded the source. 

NFL fans divided over Fox Sports' decision not to punish Michael Strahan

While some voiced shock over Fox Sports' decision, others defended Michael Strahan and his actions.

One expressed, "Wow. Shocked that he won't be punished. If he was a different race, he would be," while another shared, "Move on people. it was an honest mistake. only perfect people that have NEVER made a mistake can continue to criticize him here."

"Michael Strahan made a choice, not a mistake," remarked a person. Someone else wrote, "Well that is FOX's choice, but we can make ourselves heard about what we think about it by not watching this disrespectful clown anymore."

One more added, "He was standing respectfully. You'd think he knelt be the reaction of many," while another person stated, "He shouldn’t get a pass ! He was disrespectful"

Michael Strahan breaks silence following backlash for 'disrespecting' the National Anthem

Michael Strahan broke his silence on the controversy on Monday, November 11, by taking to Instagram. 

The former NFL player shared a photo of his father, Major Gene W Strahan Sr, from his time in the military, and paid tribute to veterans across the country.

He wrote, "Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day. Your selfless service is beyond measure."

The 52-year-old went on to highlight his father's military journey, stating, "This is my hero, it is also my father, Maj. Gene W. Strahan, Sr. He served for 23 years in the army and was a proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division."

Concluding his post, the 'GMA' host emphasized the importance of honoring veterans, noting, "Just as I honor my father, I keep all of you in my thoughts each and every day as we would not have the safety and freedoms we cherish without you. Thank You."

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