NEW YORK – The Independent Panel, consisting of one representative from the United States Soccer Federation, one representative from the Canadian Soccer Association, and one independent representative nominated by the Professional Referee Organization, has unanimously rescinded the one-game suspension and accompanying fine for the red card issued to Columbus Crew SC midfielder Federico Higuaín for violent conduct in the 45+ minute of Crew SC’s match against Sporting Kansas City on May 27.
As a result of the Columbus appeal, Higuaín is eligible to play in Crew SC’s next regular season game on June 2 against Toronto FC.
Each Club is entitled to two unsuccessful appeals per season, including playoffs. Since Columbus’ appeal was successful, the team maintains its two unsuccessful appeals for any future dismissals in the 2018 season.
MLS Disciplinary Committee Decisions
The MLS Disciplinary Committee has issued an undisclosed fine to Crew SC midfielder Federico Higuaín for failure to leave the field in a timely and orderly manner during the 45+ minute of Columbus’ match against Sporting KC on May 27.
The MLS Disciplinary Committee has suspended Columbus Crew SC midfielder Cristian Martinez two games and issued an undisclosed fine for violent conduct in the 54th minute of Columbus’ match against Sporting Kansas City on May 27. Martinez will serve suspensions during Crew SC’s match on Saturday, June 2 against Toronto FC and on Saturday, June 9 against the New York Red Bulls.
