The 49ers and Pac-12 Networks on Wednesday suspended radio play-by-play announcer Ted Robinson for two weeks following comments he made Monday in reaction to the release of a video in the Ray Rice incident.
“The comments made by radio broadcaster Ted Robinson on Monday were offensive and in no way reflect the views of the San Francisco 49ers organization,” 49ers team president Paraag Marathe said in a statement.
“We have made the decision to suspend him for the next two games. I informed Ted of our decision earlier today, and we will continue to address this matter with him internally. Our organization stands strongly against domestic violence and will not tolerate comments such as these.”
Bob Fitzgerald will replace Robinson in the booth, according to a source. Fitzgerald called 49ers radio broadcasts during the exhibition season.
The Pac-12 Networks also announced Robinson was suspended from calling any games the next two weeks for “insentive comments.” He will also undergo sensitivity training.
“Ted’s commentary on Monday was entirely unacceptable and stands in stark contrast to the core values of Pac-12 Networks,” said Pac-12 Networks President Lydia Murphy-Stephans. “We value Ted as a member of our team, but see this as an important learning opportunity as we work with him through sensitivity training before welcoming him back to our air.”
While speaking Monday on KNBR radio with Tom Tolbert, Robinson suggested Rice’s then-fiancée should have spoken up after Rice knocked her unconscious with a punch in an elevator.
“I want to unconditionally apologize for my comments the other day,” Robinson said in a statement. “As a professional communicator, I am responsible for my words. My choice of words was careless and does not reflect my true feelings about domestic violence. I understand that the cycle of abuse keeps people in unhealthy relationships. No blame or responsibility for domestic violence should ever be placed on a victim.”
Robinson has been the play-by-play voice of the 49ers since 2009.
