Columbus Crew Sack Federico Higuain After Female Referee Incident

Posted : 23 September 2026

Columbus Crew have dismissed Crew 2 head coach Federico Higuain following an incident involving a female referee during an MLS NEXT Pro match.

The incident occurred during Crew 2's August 23 match against Huntsville City FC. Higuain was sent off after the game and subsequently received a two-match suspension from MLS NEXT Pro. According to the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA), Higuain squeezed the referee's hand during a post-match handshake and did not release it after she allegedly asked him three times to stop.

The referees' union also said Higuain made a sexist remark to the official, telling her, "Don't forget this is a man's game." The PSRA described the conduct as involving physical intimidation and sexism and publicly questioned whether the league's initial disciplinary response was sufficient.

MLS NEXT Pro said it investigated the incident and determined that Higuain's behavior violated league policies. In addition to the suspension, he was required to participate in a multi-session restorative practices programme. The league said the process was intended to address accountability, respect and the restoration of relationships within the competition.

The PSRA, however, strongly criticised the punishment, saying the league's response fell "drastically short." The union argued that female officials should be able to work without intimidation or degrading comments and called for stronger disciplinary action.

Columbus initially accepted the league's disciplinary decision, but the club later reassessed the situation. On September 22, the Crew announced that Higuain had been removed from his position with immediate effect.

"We determined it's in the best interest of our Club, players and support staff to dismiss Federico Higuaín from his responsibilities," Columbus general manager Issa Tall said. The club added that, after further discussions and a review of the previous month, its standards for leaders had not been met.

Higuain, 41, is the brother of former Argentina and Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain. He enjoyed an eight-year playing career with Columbus Crew from 2012 to 2019 before later representing DC United and Inter Miami. He moved into coaching after retiring as a player in 2021.

For the remainder of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro playoffs, Columbus said members of the Crew 2 technical staff will take on additional responsibilities while the club begins its search for a permanent head coach.

Columbus Crew Sack Federico Higuain After Female Referee Incident

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