Columbus Crew have dismissed reserve-team coach Federico Higuaín following an incident involving a female referee during an MLS NEXT Pro match.
Higuaín was sent off during the August 23 game after allegedly grabbing the official’s hand and refusing to release it despite being told to stop three times. He was subsequently given a two-match suspension. The Professional Soccer Referees Association later criticised the punishment, saying the incident involved both physical intimidation and a sexist remark.
According to the referees’ association, Higuaín told the official: “Don’t forget, this is a man’s game.” The association said a forceful grab should have resulted in a three-match suspension under applicable guidelines and argued that female officials should be able to work without intimidation or degrading treatment.
Columbus Crew general manager Issa Tall confirmed Higuaín’s dismissal after the club conducted further discussions and reviewed the circumstances.
Higuaín, 41, spent eight seasons as a player with Columbus and made more than 200 appearances for the club before moving into coaching. He had managed Crew 2 since January 2025.
The dismissal comes as football authorities in North America continue efforts to promote greater respect and inclusion for female match officials.
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