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Major League Soccer coach Federico Higuaín has been dismissed by the Columbus Crew after telling a female referee, "Don't forget, this is a man's game."
Higuaín, the brother of former Real Madrid and Argentina forward Gonzalo, was ejected during an MLS NEXT PRO match last month after grabbing and refusing to release a referee's hand. He then directed the offensive sexist comment at the official before being removed from the premises.
The league issued Higuaín, who served as Columbus Crew's reserve team coach, only a two-game suspension. The lenient penalty sparked significant backlash, spearheaded by the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA).
Columbus Crew subsequently parted ways with Higuaín. "We determined it's in the best interest of our Club, players and support staff to dismiss Federico Higuaín from his responsibilities," said Crew general manager Issa Tall in an official club statement.
"After conversations this week and further assessing the past month, our Club's standards of what's expected from a leader for one of our teams have not been met."
Higuaín spent the majority of his playing career in MLS, featuring for the Crew over seven seasons before brief spells with D.C. United and Inter Miami. The Argentine subsequently took on a reserve team coaching role with the Herons before rejoining the Crew in January 2025.
The PSRA's Statement Demands More From MLS
MLS faced criticism for disregarding U.S. Soccer's established policies, as outlined by the PSRA, when determining Higuaín's punishment. The PSRA laid out its concerns in a firm and direct statement.
"A male head coach committed two deliberate acts of physical abuse and sexism against a female official—squeezing her hand and refusing to let go after being told to stop three times," the PSRA wrote.
"This physical intimidation was compounded by a demeaning, sexist remark to the official: 'Don't forget, this is a man's game.'
"Women make every level of this game better. They should not have to endure intimidation or degrading comments to prove it. Our female officials have demonstrated their excellence on the world stage. They deserve the same respect, dignity and safe working environment as every other official.
"US Soccer policy states a 'forceful grab' like this requires a minimum three-game suspension. Acts of discrimination also require a minimum three-game suspension. The league's response falls drastically short of the right message to the participants, the referees and the public. It needs to be re-evaluated."
Higuaín Showed 'Lack of Accountability'
It is worth noting that the Crew did not decide to terminate Higuaín's contract until after the PSRA's rebuke. Initially, the club issued the following statement:
"The Crew actively collaborated with MLS NEXT Pro throughout the review process and fully accepted the additional discipline issued in accordance with league policies. We condemn any action or notion that contradicts our mission of uniting and uplifting all communities and genders through the global game."
However, ESPN reported that internally, Columbus were not "satisfied" with Higuaín's reaction to the incident. The 41-year-old displayed a "lack of contrition" and declined to publicly apologize to the female referee.
There was also a broader "lack of accountability" on his part, which ultimately led the club to sever ties with Higuaín.