Columbus Crew fires Federico Higuain after controversy involving female referee

Thursday 24 - 16:30

Columbus Crew has dismissed Federico Higuain from his position as head coach of its reserve side following an incident involving a female referee during an MLS NEXT Pro match.

The club announced the decision on Tuesday, ending Higuain’s tenure after the former Argentine player had already received a red card and a two-match suspension over the August 23 incident.

Dispute during MLS NEXT Pro match

The incident occurred during a match between Columbus Crew 2 and Huntsville City FC. According to the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA), Higuain allegedly squeezed a female official’s hand and did not release it after she asked him to stop three times.

The referees’ association also said that Higuain made a sexist remark to the official, telling her: “Don’t forget, this is a man’s game.” The PSRA characterized the episode as involving both physical intimidation and sexist conduct.

The incident resulted in Higuain being sent off and subsequently suspended for two matches. The PSRA later publicly criticized the length of the suspension, arguing that the disciplinary response did not adequately reflect the conduct it described.

Columbus Crew ends coaching role

Despite the earlier disciplinary action, Higuain returned to the team before the club ultimately decided to terminate his coaching role.

Columbus Crew general manager Issa Tall said the organization concluded that removing Higuain was in the best interests of the club, its players and its technical staff. Tall added that further discussions and a review of the previous month had led the club to determine that its expectations for leaders had not been met.

The club's statement did not detail every factor behind the dismissal, while reports cited by several outlets said subsequent discussions had focused on Higuain's handling of the incident and his response to the allegations.

From Columbus player to coach

The 41-year-old Higuain is the brother of former Argentina and Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain. Federico built much of his playing reputation in Major League Soccer, particularly during his long spell with Columbus Crew.

He joined the club's coaching structure after his playing career and was appointed head coach of Crew 2 in January 2025. His dismissal now brings that coaching chapter to an end following a controversy that has drawn renewed attention to standards of conduct toward match officials.

The case has also highlighted wider concerns raised by the referees' union about the treatment and protection of female officials working in professional football. The PSRA said women officials should be able to perform their duties without intimidation or degrading treatment.