D.C. United has parted ways with midfielder Taxi Fountas after a league investigation determined that there was credible evidence that he used a racial slur toward another player.
D.C. United has parted ways with midfielder Taxi Fountas after a league investigation determined that there was credible evidence that he used a racial slur toward another player.
In a statement to WTOP, MLS said they determined that there were “credible allegations” that Fountas, who had been placed on administrative leave, used discriminatory language. His contract has been terminated by United, effective immediately.
“There is no place for racism, homophobia, misogyny or discrimination of any kind in our sport and world,” the statement said, adding that the franchise does not tolerate “any acts of this nature.”
The Athletic was the first to report on Fountas’ dismissal from United.
Fountas and teammate Nigel Robertha were placed on paid administrative leave on July 21 while MLS investigated possible violations of league policy.
The Washington Post reported an altercation between the players after D.C.’s 4-0 loss against the New England Revolution on July 15. After both players exchanged words on the field during the game, the issue continued in the locker room, where Robertha struck Fountas with a foam roller. Fountas then began using expletives, The Washington Post reports.
Robertha was allowed to return to team activities three days later.
It is the second time that Fountas has been investigated for an allegation of using discriminatory language. Last year, the league investigated an allegation that Fountas said a slur toward Miami defender Aimé Mabika during a match. The league said it found the allegation credible but could not find corroborating evidence, and Fountas was allowed to return for the 2023 season.
Fountas has not publicly commented on the recent allegations.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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