Major League Soccer is launching an investigation after a racist incident allegedly occurred during the 54th minute of Saturday night’s match between the San Jose Earthquakes and New York Red Bulls.
Earthquakes striker Jeremy Ebobisse said afterwards that a Red Bulls player made a racist remark during the second half of Saturday’s draw. While Ebobisse did not reveal the name of the player who made the alleged horrible remark, it almost led to San Jose walking off the field. Rather than walking off, though, San Jose continued with Saturday’s contest because the player who made the remark reportedly said it was not directed toward anyone in particular.
“What is important for me to share is that I know what I heard. And the reason why I felt, after a lengthy conversation, we should continue with the game, is because the player who said the word claimed it was not aimed at any of us,” Ebobisse said, via ESPN.
Still, the league is investigating the matter and released a statement following the incident.
“Major League Soccer is aware of an incident wherein a New York Red Bulls player is alleged to have used language that violates league policy during the 54th minute of the New York Red Bulls vs. San Jose Earthquakes match tonight,” MLS said in a statement via Twitter on Saturday night.
“MLS has zero tolerance for abusive and offensive language and takes these allegations seriously. An investigation into this matter will begin promptly. Further information will be provided upon completion of that investigation.”
A statement from Major League Soccer: pic.twitter.com/KYGgKzlaU4
— MLS Communications (@MLS_PR) April 9, 2023
The Earthquakes later released a statement in full support of MLS’ investigation into the alleged incident, stating that “Our club does not tolerate any form of racism or abuse and we stand with our players following these very serious allegations. This language has no place in our game.”
— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) April 9, 2023
[ESPN, MLS PR, and San Jose Earthquakes on Twitter]
