MLS coach sacked after sexist remark to female referee
MLS club Columbus Crew sack their reserve team coach after he refused to let go of a female referee's hand and says "don't forget this is a man's game".
Columbus Crew have dismissed their reserve team coach Federico Higuain following a sexist remark made to a female referee. The former player, brother of Gonzalo Higuain, was sent off and banned for two matches for his behavior during an MLS Next Pro league game. Crew general manager Issa Tall stated that Higuain's actions did not meet the club's standards of leadership.
The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) criticized the league's response, arguing that the two-game ban was insufficient. The PSRA emphasized that Higuain's actions constituted physical abuse and sexism against the female referee, who was repeatedly asked to stop squeezing his hand. The union added that Higuain's remark, "Don't forget, this is a man's game," was demeaning and sexist.
The association highlighted the excellence of female officials on the world stage and called for equal respect and a safe working environment for all referees.
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