PSRA Criticizes MLS NEXT Pro over Higuaín's Two-Game Ban

The air in the tunnel still hums with the heat of a recent loss, but the tension has shifted from the pitch to the administrative offices. A male head coach in MLS NEXT Pro was suspended for two games after gripping a female referee’s hand with enough force to leave a mark, a physical act that followed a verbal jab claiming soccer is a man’s game. The incident, which occurred after a match against Huntsville City FC, has drawn sharp fire from the Professional Soccer Referees Association, who view the penalty as a failure of justice.

According to Yahoo Sports, the coach, identified in multiple reports as Federico Higuaín of Columbus Crew 2, was told to stop squeezing the official’s hand three separate times before finally releasing her. This physical intimidation was paired with the demeaning remark, "Don't forget, this is a man's game." The PSRA, the labor union representing referees across North America, contends that U.S. Soccer guidelines mandate a minimum three-game suspension for such a forceful grab, making the league's two-game ruling a drastic shortfall in accountability.

Guidelines Ignored in League Decision

The league’s response, shared with multiple outlets, stated that the coach’s behavior warranted discipline beyond the red card already issued. In addition to the suspension, Higuaín is required to complete a multi-session restorative practice training designed to foster understanding and accountability. However, the PSRA argues that the league’s reaction falls short of the message needed to protect officials, stating that women make every level of the game better and should not have to endure degrading comments to prove their excellence.

Columbus Crew 2, the second-tier affiliate of the Columbus Crew, stated that they actively collaborated with the league and fully accepted the additional discipline. The club emphasized its commitment to creating environments where everyone is welcome, condemning any action that contradicts their mission of uniting communities through the global game. Despite the club’s statement, the dispute over the severity of the punishment remains a flashpoint for the refereeing community.

Referees Unify in Solidarity Post

In direct response to the controversy, multiple female referees took to social media on Monday to post photos with the message "We Belong." The campaign served as a visible stand against the intimidation incident, with prominent figures like Tori Penso joining the chorus. Penso, who became the first American woman to officiate at the FIFA World Cup this summer, lent her platform to the cause, highlighting the ongoing struggle for dignity and safety in the sport.

The incident has cast a long shadow over the league's efforts to promote inclusivity. While Higuaín has begun the required training, the PSRA maintains that the punishment does not adequately reflect the severity of the physical abuse and sexism involved. The union insists that the league must reevaluate its stance to ensure that female officials are afforded the same respect and safe working environment as every other participant in the game.

Coach History and Current Status

Higuaín, a 41-year-old Argentine former player, spent several seasons with the Columbus Crew before transitioning into coaching. His suspension covers the team's matches on August 30 and September 4, a period during which he is barred from the field. The lack of a public announcement for the suspension initially fueled speculation, but subsequent reports confirmed the disciplinary action taken by the league.

As the debate continues, the focus remains on the broader implications for how the league handles conduct violations involving gender bias. The PSRA’s statement underscores the need for consistent enforcement of rules that protect officials from physical and verbal abuse. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges still facing women in the sport, both on and off the field, as they strive for equal recognition and respect.