Major League Soccer is currently looking into allegations of “antisemitic and discriminatory language” reportedly used by fans of CF Montreal towards a player from the opposing team during a match at Saputo Stadium on Saturday. While the league confirmed the comments were directed at a New England Revolution player, the specific details were not disclosed.
The New England Revolution publicly identified the player targeted as Dor Turgeman, an Israeli forward, and strongly denounced the discriminatory abuse he faced from CF Montreal supporters during the away game. The team promptly reported the incident to Major League Soccer, which also condemned the reported behavior.
A video replay of the game showcased a moment where Turgeman scored a goal and engaged in celebratory gestures towards the home team’s supporters. This action led to exchanges between the players and fans, with some spectators seen making gestures and shouting, while one individual threw an object onto the field. Meanwhile, Montreal goalkeeper Sebastian Breza received a yellow card during the ensuing commotion.
Sports journalist Caleb Pongratz, covering the New England Revolution, was present at the match and shared that fans in the stands directed a range of insults at Turgeman. CF Montreal has stated its zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination and hateful conduct, promising to investigate the incident in collaboration with Major League Soccer and the New England Revolution.
Major League Soccer emphasized its commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, emphasizing that derogatory language has no place in the league or the sport. The league’s fan code of conduct strictly prohibits such behavior and outlines potential penalties, including ejection from games or a minimum six-month ban from attending MLS matches.
CF Montreal’s supporter group, 1642MTL, condemned the reported behavior at Saputo Stadium, asserting that such actions are unacceptable within the club’s community. Additionally, Le Collectif Impact Montréal, another fan organization, highlighted its anti-racist stance and history of opposing discrimination. The group aims to engage with relevant authorities regarding the investigation and refuted claims of antisemitic chants from their members despite social media speculation.