Major League Soccer club Columbus Crew has parted ways with their reserve team coach, Federico Higuaín, following an incident involving sexist remarks to a female referee. The decision was made after Higuaín was sent off and handed a two-match suspension for his conduct during an August 23 match against Huntsville City FC. According to reports, Higuaín refused to release the female referee's hand and made a sexist remark, saying "Don't forget, this is a man's game."
The incident occurred during the post-match handshake, where Higuaín allegedly squeezed the female official's hand and refused to let go despite being told to stop three times. The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) criticized the league's initial two-game ban as inadequate, describing it as "drastically short." The referees' union emphasized that Higuaín's actions were not only physically intimidating but also demeaning and sexist.
The PSRA released a statement expressing their concerns, highlighting that female officials deserve respect, dignity, and a safe working environment. They also emphasized that women make every level of the game better and should not have to endure intimidation or degrading comments to prove it. The union's statement reflected the severity of the incident and the need for stricter actions against Higuaín.
Columbus Crew's general manager, Issa Tall, stated that the club decided to dismiss Higuaín as it was in the best interest of the club, players, and support staff. Tall mentioned that Higuaín's actions did not meet the club's standards of what's expected from a leader. The club has begun searching for a permanent replacement, with the Crew 2 technical staff handling coaching duties during the upcoming MLS NEXT Pro playoffs.
Federico Higuaín, the brother of former Real Madrid and Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuaín, had returned to the sideline after serving the ban and completing part of a required restorative practices process. However, the club ultimately decided to part ways with him. Higuaín had been a longtime player for Columbus Crew before taking on the role of head coach of Crew 2, the club's MLS NEXT Pro side.
The incident has sparked a conversation about sexism and respect for female officials in sports. The PSRA's criticism of the initial suspension highlights the need for stricter actions against those who engage in sexist behavior. The Columbus Crew's decision to dismiss Higuaín sends a strong message about the club's commitment to maintaining a respectful and safe environment for all officials.
The search for a permanent replacement for Higuaín is underway, with the Crew 2 technical staff handling coaching duties in the meantime. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting respect and inclusivity in sports, and the need for leaders to set a positive example for their teams and the wider community.
Key points
- Columbus Crew's reserve team coach Federico Higuaín was dismissed due to sexist remarks to a female referee.
- The Professional Soccer Referees Association criticized the initial two-game ban as inadequate.
- The incident highlights the need for stricter actions against those who engage in sexist behavior in sports.
