Major League Soccer side Columbus Crew has terminated the contract of reserve team head coach Federico Higuaín. The decision follows a match-day altercation in an MLS NEXT Pro game where Higuaín was accused of physical abuse and directing sexist comments at a female match official.
During the incident, the coach reportedly grasped a female referee’s hand and refused to release it despite being instructed to stop three times. He also made a derogatory remark to the official, stating, “Don’t forget this is a man’s game.” Following an initial investigation, MLS NEXT Pro handed down a two-match suspension before the club ultimately decided to sever ties with the coach.
Club general manager Issa Tall announced the dismissal on Tuesday, explaining that the decision was made in the best interest of the organization’s players and support staff. Tall noted that after further internal assessment, the club concluded that Higuaín had failed to meet the professional standards expected of a team leader.
Prior to the club’s formal firing, the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA), which represents officials in the United States and Canada, publicly criticized the initial two-game suspension as inadequate. The union described the incident as a case of deliberate physical intimidation compounded by demeaning behavior. In its statement, the PSRA emphasized that female officials have demonstrated excellence at the highest levels and deserve to operate in a safe, respectful environment free from degradation or threats.
Higuaín, the brother of former Argentina, Real Madrid, and Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuaín, had been appointed to lead the Crew 2 squad in January 2025. His tenure at the club followed a distinguished playing career for the Columbus Crew, during which he appeared in 210 matches, recording 59 goals and 51 assists. The club has not provided further details regarding the incident, and league authorities have been contacted for additional comment on the matter. The report also notes that our female officials have proven their excellence on the world stage. The report also notes that dignity, and safe working environment as every other official.”, they deserve the same respect. The report also notes that “Women make every level of this game better.
Comments