The Columbus Crew has parted ways with Federico Higuaín, head coach of their reserve team, following serious allegations of sexist behaviour and physical misconduct involving a female referee during a match. The decision to terminate Higuaín’s contract was announced on Tuesday, September 22, marking a significant move amid ongoing discussions about professional conduct in sports.
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Higuaín, aged 41 and the brother of well-known footballer Gonzalo Higuaín, had faced disciplinary measures prior to his dismissal. He was subjected to a two-game suspension after an incident that reportedly took place on August 23 at an MLS NEXT Pro match. The controversy emerged when a male coach was found guilty of squeezing a female official’s hand and making demeaning comments, including, “Don’t forget, this is a man’s game.”
Issa Tall, general manager of the Columbus Crew, explained the reasoning behind the team’s decision, stating that it was essential to uphold the club’s standards and to provide a safe environment for all participants. “After conversations this week and further assessing the past month, our club’s standards of what’s expected from a leader for one of our teams have not been met,” Tall remarked in a formal statement.
The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) issued a statement addressing the incident, criticising the initial response from MLS NEXT Pro. The PSRA indicated that a mere two-game suspension was insufficient and conveyed that the league had failed to deliver an appropriate message regarding respect and equality in officiating. The association emphasised that female officials should not be subjected to intimidation or derogatory remarks, highlighting their contributions to the game at all levels.
In his role as reserve team coach since January 2025, Higuaín was expected to embody the values and ethics of the club. However, the recent developments have prompted the Crew to reassess the suitability of his leadership role within their organisation. The dismissal aims to reaffirm the club’s commitment to nurturing a positive and inclusive atmosphere, aligning with contemporary expectations within professional sports.
The PSRA further asserted that women in football significantly enhance the sport’s integrity and excellence, and added that they deserve equal treatment and a safe work environment. Their remarks reflect a growing awareness and the need for accountability in a landscape that is increasingly scrutinised for issues of harassment and discrimination.
Higuaín’s departure from the Columbus Crew’s coaching staff over such serious allegations serves as a pivotal reminder of the importance of maintaining professional standards within sports organisations. The Crew’s actions may resonate throughout the league and beyond, as other teams and associations grapple with similar challenges.
The termination of Federico Higuaín illustrates the football community’s ongoing battle against sexism and misconduct, signalling a refusal to tolerate behaviour that undermines the principles of respect and equality. As the industry continues to evolve, the hope remains that further steps will be taken to protect all participants and foster unity and respect in the sport.
Through this incident, the Columbus Crew not only holds themselves accountable but also contributes to a larger conversation about the treatment of women in sports. The club’s leadership emphasises that progress towards a more equitable playing field is essential for the future of the game and for the well-being of everyone involved.