MLS Investigates Alleged Non-Discrimination Policy Violation in Minnesota vs. Vancouver Match
In the world of Major League Soccer, where the beautiful game is celebrated for its diversity and inclusivity, an incident has emerged that threatens to overshadow the spirit of the sport. On Sunday, during a match between Minnesota United FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps, a reported violation of the league’s Non-Discrimination Policy has come to light. The league has announced that it will “immediately begin a thorough review of the matter.”
The incident in question occurred in the 95th minute of the match, which saw the Whitecaps secure a 3-1 victory. The league’s broadcast feed captured a verbal altercation between 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 such violations, engaging in discussions with the managers and captains of both teams. Interestingly, Rosales wasn’t sanctioned, suggesting that Fischer couldn’t verify the specifics of what was said or by whom. Consequently, the game continued, but the atmosphere remained charged.
Even after the final whistle, tempers flared, leading to further verbal exchanges. 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 their 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.”
Past Incidents and MLS’s Response
This isn’t the first time MLS has had to address issues of discriminatory behavior. In November 2023, Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner was suspended for three games for directing 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, rolled out prior to the 2024 season, aims to educate players, especially those from abroad, about unacceptable verbal phrases and the consequences of using them.
- All players, coaches, and support staff are required to participate in this training.
- The program emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural sensitivities and the impact of words.
- It serves as a proactive measure to foster a more inclusive environment on and off the field.
As the league delves into the details of the recent incident, the soccer community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that upholds the values of respect and equality. The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly set a precedent for how MLS handles similar situations in the future.
Originally Written by: Jeff Carlisle
