MLS issues six-game suspension to Dante Vanzeir for racist remarks
Major League Soccer issued a six-game suspension and monetary fine to New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir for the use of racist language during the regular-season game on April 8, 2023.
The incident took place in the 54th minute of the match, when the forward made racist remarks to opponent Jeremy Ebobisse. The San Jose Earthquakes figure revealed after that the comments were not directed at him, but chose not to name the subject of the remarks.
The Red Bulls player will now also be prohibited from participating in any US Open Cup, MLS NEXT Pro games and exhibition matches until the suspension is completed. In order to return to the league, Vanzeir must complete additional League-mandated training and education sessions, “as well as a restorative practices program.”
“MLS is working with both clubs and the MLS Players Association to provide impacted players and staff with support and resources, and is committed to continuing to review and improve its in-game protocol,” announced the league in a statement.
Since the incident, Vanzeir and New York Red Bulls head coach Gerhard Struber have made public statements.
"I want to sincerely apologize to the players of the Earthquakes. I will do everything I can to be part of the change that needs to happen in this sport and our world. I also want to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the organization and our fans. I made a mistake and will take all the necessary steps to grow," said the player.
Struber, on the other hand, addressed his decision to keep the player in the game, despite pleas from other players to have him removed.
"During our match on Saturday, I made a decision that I thought was best given the information I had at that moment," Struber said. "While there was a lot of uncertainty at the time, with the information that I now know, the right decision would have been to immediately remove Dante Vanzeir from the game."
The NYRB head coach was not fined or suspended for his actions during the match, or subsequent reaction.
Though the length of the suspension stands as the league’s longest ban for language-related offenses, MLS and the New York Red Bulls’ responses to the situation is being heavily criticized by fans, players and organizations within the league.