Major League Soccer Concludes Investigation into Taxi Fountas' Alleged Use of Racially Abusive Language
October 31, 2022 - Major League Soccer (MLS) News Release
NEW YORK - Major League Soccer has concluded its investigation into an allegation that D.C. United player Taxi Fountas used racially abusive language toward an Inter Miami CF player during the teams' match on September 18.
MLS found that the allegation, made by Inter Miami CF defender Aimé Mabika, was credible. While the league investigation could not independently verify the allegation, MLS did not find credible Fountas' claim, made during interviews conducted as part of this investigation, that he said nothing in that moment -- discriminatory or otherwise. Video of the incident clearly shows Mabika suddenly reacting to something he believed he heard from Fountas. MLS was unable to confirm independently, through additional eyewitness accounts, video footage or audio recordings, what Fountas said in that moment, as has been the league's long-standing practice in determining player discipline for these types of allegations.
MLS plans to examine its policies and practices as they relate to allegations of abusive and discriminatory language and is committed to working with all of the stakeholders during this off-season.
During this investigation, Fountas voluntarily remained separated from D.C. United and did not participate in two MLS matches on October 1 and October 9. Fountas is eligible to play for D.C. United during the 2023 season.
All MLS players and other employees are required to undergo regular discrimination and anti-harassment training as part of the league's ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and safe workplace for everyone.
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