Federico Higuain dismissed by Columbus Crew 2 after 2026 referee abuse scandal

Background: MLS NEXT Pro and Columbus Crew 2

MLS NEXT Pro, launched in 2022, serves as the developmental bridge between youth academies and Major League Soccer’s first‑team rosters. The league’s emphasis on professional standards and player pathways has attracted clubs eager to nurture talent, and Columbus Crew 2 is one of its flagship sides, fielding a mix of academy graduates and seasoned pros.

Federico Higuain, a former Argentine international and MLS star, took over as head coach of Crew 2 in early 2025. His résumé—highlighted by a prolific playing career and a brief stint as an assistant with the senior Columbus Crew—made him a high‑profile appointment for a club looking to blend experience with youth development.

Since his arrival, Higuain has been praised for implementing a possession‑based system that mirrors the senior team’s tactics. However, his tenure has also been shadowed by a growing scrutiny of coaching conduct across the league, especially after several high‑profile incidents involving disrespect toward officials in recent seasons.

The incident and immediate fallout

During a match against St. Louis City SC 2 on September 19, 2026, Higuain was caught on camera shouting profanities and gesturing aggressively at a female referee after a disputed penalty call. The referee, who asked for protection from the league’s officiating department, later described the encounter as “intimidating and demeaning.”

MLS NEXT Pro responded within hours, issuing a provisional suspension pending investigation, as reported by The Athletic. The league’s disciplinary committee cited its zero‑tolerance policy for abuse directed at officials, especially women, and warned that any breach would trigger “termination for cause.”

Just two days later, Columbus Crew announced that Higuain’s contract had been terminated effective immediately. In a brief statement, the club said the decision was taken “in alignment with league policy and our commitment to a safe, respectful environment for all match officials.”

Why it matters for U.S. soccer and gender equity

The episode underscores a persistent challenge for American soccer: ensuring that the rapid professionalisation of lower‑division leagues does not outpace the cultural shift needed to protect officials, particularly women. Female referees still represent less than 15 % of the total officiating pool in MLS NEXT Pro, and incidents of verbal abuse have been linked to higher attrition rates among them.

By acting swiftly, both MLS NEXT Pro and Columbus Crew send a clear message that misconduct will be met with decisive action. This could encourage other clubs to tighten internal codes of conduct and invest in education programs that address power dynamics on the pitch.

Critics, however, argue that firing a coach without a full public hearing may set a precedent for “quick‑fix” disciplinary measures that bypass due process. The league’s investigation report, expected later this month, will be closely watched to see whether it balances accountability with transparency.

African and diaspora perspective: parallels and lessons

The controversy resonates beyond U.S. borders, especially among African football fans and diaspora communities who have long witnessed similar referee‑abuse scandals in leagues from Nigeria to South Africa. In 2023, the Nigerian Professional Football League faced a wave of complaints after several female match officials were publicly berated, prompting the federation to introduce mandatory anti‑harassment workshops.

African‑American and Caribbean‑origin players in MLS often look to role models like Higuain for mentorship. The incident therefore raises questions about how clubs can foster a culture that respects officials while still providing robust mentorship for young talent from minority backgrounds.

For African diaspora supporters of Columbus Crew, the firing is a reminder that the fight for gender equity in sport is global. It highlights the need for cross‑continental collaboration on best practices—something the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has begun to explore through its Women’s Refereeing Development Programme, which could serve as a template for MLS NEXT Pro’s future policies.

What’s next: club, league and broader implications

Columbus Crew has appointed interim head coach Javier Mendoza, a former assistant with the senior side, while the club conducts a thorough review of its internal conduct guidelines. Sources close to the organization say the review will include mandatory training on gender‑based harassment for all coaching staff.

MLS NEXT Pro plans to roll out a new “Respect the Whistle” campaign in early 2027, featuring former female referees from both North America and Africa as ambassadors. The initiative aims to combine educational videos, community outreach, and stricter penalties for violations, a move that could set a new standard for lower‑tier professional leagues worldwide.

For Higuain, the future remains uncertain. While some pundits speculate he could find a role in youth development abroad—perhaps in his native Argentina or even in emerging African markets—his reputation will likely be a subject of debate for months to come. The broader takeaway for the sport is that personal conduct is now inseparable from professional credibility, a lesson that clubs across continents cannot afford to ignore.

Quick Answers

What led to Federico Higuain's dismissal from Columbus Crew 2?
He was fired after MLS NEXT Pro suspended him for verbally abusing a female referee during a match, violating the league’s zero‑tolerance policy.

How does the incident affect Columbus Crew 2’s season?
The team will operate under an interim coach while reviewing its conduct policies, which could cause short‑term instability but aims to preserve the club’s reputation.

What steps is MLS taking to protect female referees after the scandal?
MLS NEXT Pro is launching a “Respect the Whistle” campaign, tightening penalties for abuse, and mandating anti‑harassment training for all coaches and staff.

Source: www.espn.com