MLS finds Inter Miami claim of racial slur by D.C. player “credible” but can’t prove it
Major League Soccer on Monday announced the findings of its six-week investigation into an allegation that D.C. United player Taxi Fountas used racially abusive language toward an Inter Miami player during a match on September 18.
MLS found that the allegation, made by Inter Miami defender Aimé Mabika, was credible. While the league investigation could not independently verify the allegation of a racial slur, MLS did not find credible Fountas’ claim, made during interviews as part of this investigation, that he said nothing in that moment -- discriminatory or otherwise.
The league confirmed that video of the incident clearly shows Mabika suddenly reacting to something he believed he heard from Fountas after a scuffle with Miami defender Damion Lowe, who is black. Lowe and Fountas received yellow cards.
MLS was unable to confirm independently, through additional eyewitness accounts, video footage or audio recordings, what Fountas said in that moment. For that reason, there will be no fine or suspension. Independent corroboration has been the league’s long-standing practice in determining player discipline for these types of allegations.
Fountas voluntarily remained separated from D.C. United during the investigation and did not participate in two matches on October 1 and October 9. Fountas is eligible to play for D.C. United during the 2023 season.
Fountas issued a statement vehemently denying the allegation the day after Miami’s 3-2 win at Audi Field.
“I did not use the word I am being accused of using,” Fountas posted on Instagram. “That despicable racial slur is one I denounce and did not use. We had a hot discussion on the field, but I have not racially abused anyone. I firmly reject racism in any form, it is despicable. I have many friends from many cultures. I always respect the culture, religion, and skin color of each person. I am therefore very upset by this accusation and saddened to be falsely accused.”
After Mabika told his teammates what he heard Fountas say, Miami players told coach Phil Neville they would not continue to play unless something was done about Fountas. D.C. coach Wayne Rooney pulled Fountas from the game a few minutes later.
Fountas, a 27-year-old native of Greece, is D.C.’s leading scorer with 12 goals.
After the game, Miami coach Phil Neville said: “There is no place at all for racism on a football field or society. A word was used that is unacceptable in society. It is the worst word in the world.”
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. MLS plans to examine its policies and practices as they relate to allegations of abusive and discriminatory language during this off-season.
MLS has fined or suspended players and coaches in the past for abusive language. Among the cases: In 1998, New England player Edwin Gorter was fined $20,000 and suspended two games for racist slur during a scuffle with a teammate; In 2006, D.C. coach Peter Nowak was fined for a racist comment; and in 2013, San Jose’s Alan Gordon was suspended three games for a homophobic slur.
This story was originally published October 31, 2022 at 5:42 PM.