MLS Statement on Ernst Tanner
Published on March 16, 2026 under Major League Soccer (MLS) News Release
NEW YORK - Following the completion of an investigation conducted by the law firm Littler Mendelson, Major League Soccer has suspended Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner without pay through June 1, 2026.
On November 19, 2025, MLS reopened its investigation into allegations of inappropriate and insensitive comments and Mr. Tanner was placed on administrative leave.
Based on new information obtained during outside counsel's independent review, the investigation substantiated violations of MLS policies and standards of professional conduct required of League and Club leadership.
Prior to his reinstatement, Tanner must successfully complete a League-approved restorative practices program.
MLS is committed to fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and accountability. We will continue working to ensure our clubs reflect those principles at every level of the organization.
Major League Soccer Stories from March 16, 2026
- Atlanta United Announces 2026 Special Olympics Unified Team, Presented by Gallagher - Atlanta United FC
- A Queen City Milestone for the Mayor: Brandt Bronico's 150th Appearance for the Crown - Charlotte FC
- Chicago Fire FC Weekly Update - Chicago Fire FC
- Petar Musa Named MLS Player of the Matchday Presented by Michelob ULTRA for Matchday 4 - FC Dallas
- FC Dallas Forward Petar Musa Voted MLS Player of the Matchday Presented by Michelob ULTRA for Matchday 4 - MLS
- Registration Closes March 18 for the First LA28 Ticket Draw and Locals Presale - San Jose Earthquakes
- Last Chance to Register for the First LA28 Ticket Draw - St. Louis City SC
- San Diego to Host 11 LA28 Olympic Football (Soccer) Tournament Matches in July 2028 - San Diego FC
- Alexander Aravena Called up to Chile Men's National Team for March International Window - Portland Timbers
- Ríos Novo Named to MLS Team of the Matchday - Inter Miami CF
- Finn Surman Called up to New Zealand Men's National Team for March International Window - Portland Timbers
- MLS Statement on Ernst Tanner - MLS
- Attackers Mateusz Bogusz and Guilherme Named to MLSSoccer.com Team of the Matchday - Houston Dynamo FC
- Crew, Columbus to Host Nine LA28 Olympic Football (Soccer) Tournament Matches in July 2028 - Columbus Crew SC
- Sporting KC Weekly - Sporting Kansas City
- Major League Soccer Announces Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs Schedule - MLS
- Inter Miami CF and Duracell Renew Partnership, Continuing to Power the Club - Inter Miami CF
- FC Cincinnati Falter on the Road in New England, Fall 6-1 to the Revolution - FC Cincinnati
- Sounders FC Captures Three Points in San Jose with 1-0 Road Win over Earthquakes - Seattle Sounders FC
- Quakes' unbeaten run ends at three in front of sellout crowd at PayPal Park - San Jose Earthquakes
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
