MLS Investigates Alleged Non-Discrimination Policy Violation in Minnesota vs. Vancouver Match
In a recent development that has caught the attention of Major League Soccer (MLS) and its fans, the league announced it is aware of a reported violation of its Non-Discrimination Policy. This incident reportedly took place during Sunday’s match between Minnesota United FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps, a game that ended with a 3-1 victory for the Whitecaps. The league has committed to “immediately begin a thorough review of the matter.”
The incident in question appeared to occur in the 95th minute of the match. The league’s broadcast feed captured a verbal altercation involving Minnesota’s Joseph Rosales and Vancouver’s Emmanuel Sabbi. Adding to the tension, Sabbi’s teammate, Sebastian Berhalter, joined the fray, gesturing at Rosales.
Referee Drew Fischer was seen invoking the MLS protocol for violations of the league’s Non-Discrimination Policy. He engaged in discussions with the managers and captains of both teams. Interestingly, Rosales wasn’t sanctioned by Fischer, suggesting that the referee was unable to verify the specifics of what was said and by whom. Consequently, the game continued without further interruption.
However, the tension didn’t dissipate with the final whistle. Verbal altercations persisted, and according to The Minnesota Star-Tribune, Rosales allegedly shoved a Vancouver player as they made their way down the tunnel.
In response to the incident, Minnesota United released a statement acknowledging the allegations against one of its players. The club stated, “Minnesota United is aware of an on-field incident involving one of our players and an allegation of a violation of the League’s Non-Discrimination policy. Harassment or discriminatory behavior has no place in our sport, and we condemn all forms of harassment or discrimination. We are in close communication with Major League Soccer and will refrain from making any further comments as the League reviews the matter.”
MLS’s Ongoing Battle Against Discrimination
This isn’t the first time MLS has had to address issues of discriminatory behavior. In November 2023, the league suspended Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner for three games after he directed a slur at then-New England Revolution forward Bobby Wood. Earlier that year, then-New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir faced a six-game suspension for a racial slur directed at then-San Jose Earthquakes forward Jeremy Ebobisse.
In an effort to curb such incidents, MLS, in collaboration with the advocacy group Black Players For Change and the MLS Players Association, developed a training program. This initiative was rolled out prior to the 2024 season. The program aims to educate all players, particularly those from abroad, about unacceptable verbal phrases that will result in punishment.
- All individuals on the technical side of a team, including players, coaches, and support staff, are required to participate in this training.
- The program is part of MLS’s broader strategy to foster an inclusive and respectful environment on and off the field.
As the league continues its investigation into the recent incident, fans and players alike are reminded of the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship in the beautiful game. The outcome of this investigation will likely set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future, reinforcing MLS’s commitment to a discrimination-free sporting environment.
Originally Written by: Jeff Carlisle
