League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Coaching

Referees union criticizes MLS NEXT Pro over Higuain incident

ESPN Soccer • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 10:16 PM

Last updated Sep 20, 2026

Referees union criticizes MLS NEXT Pro over Higuain incident

Summary

On September 20, 2026, the union representing MLS and USL referees expressed strong criticism of MLS NEXT Pro regarding its response to an incident involving a coach's alleged abuse towards a female referee. The coach reportedly committed two acts described as physical abuse and sexism. The union's statement points to broader concerns about the treatment of officials in the league. The situation may prompt further discussions on policies within MLS NEXT Pro.

Source Links

ESPN Soccer

Key Details

•Referees union addresses MLS NEXT Pro's handling of an incident.
•Incident involved a coach and a female referee.
•Coach accused of physical abuse and sexism.
•Union urges stronger protections for referees.
•Critique may lead to policy reviews within MLS NEXT Pro.

Latest Updates

10:59 PMESPN Soccer — Sources: Higuain at center of refs union beef with MLS NEXT Pro

What they're saying

"
The union that represents MLS and USL referees, launched a scathing critique of MLS NEXT Pro over its handling of an incident in which a coach committed what it described as "two deliberate acts of physical abuse and sexism towards a female referee."
— ESPN Soccerby Jeff Carlisle

Related Teams & Leagues

MLS Soccer