MLS issues statement following racial incident in match between the San Jose Earthquakes and New York Red Bulls
By Alex Windley
On April 8th, Major League Soccer issued a statement condemning an alleged racial slur being used on the field during a match between San Jose and the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey.
The alleged incident happened in the 54th minute as both teams came together after a foul. Jeremy Ebobisse explained he and the rest of the team continued to play following the incident because "the player who made the remark said it was not directed toward anyone in particular."
"What is important for me to share is that I know what I heard and the reason why I felt, after a lengthy conversation, we should continue with the game is because the player who said the word claimed it was not aimed at any of us," Ebobisse said after the game.
MLS announced that they would be looking into the incident and issued a statement condemning any abuse in the league.
"Major League Soccer is aware of an incident wherein a New York Red Bulls player is alleged to have used language that violates league policy during the 54th minute of the New York Red Bulls vs. San Jose Earthquakes match tonight."
MLS has zero tolerance for abusive and offensive language and takes these allegations seriously. An investigation into this matter will begin promptly. Further information will be provided upon completion of that investigation."
While the alleged slur wasn’t directed towards anyone in particular, San Jose Earthquakes forward Jeremy Ebobisse didn’t want to reveal the name of the player who said it, and doubled down on what he heard on the field.
"What is important for me to share is that I know what I heard and the reason why I felt, after a lengthy conversation, we should continue with the game is because the player who said the word claimed it was not aimed at any of us," Ebobisse said.
Furthermore, both the Red Bulls and Earthquakes put out statements addressing the incident on social media, supporting the league's investigation.