Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner has been suspended without pay through June 1, MLS announced on Monday.
Tanner had been on leave since Nov. 19 in the wake of a report by The Guardian detailing allegations of inappropriate and insensitive comments.
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According to the report, Tanner routinely used racist, sexist and homophobic language and made inappropriate physical contact with a Union staff member, which had been reported to the Union’s HR department.
MLS had previously investigated Tanner but could not corroborate any wrongdoing; it wasn’t until The Guardian’s report that the league re-opened the investigation, after which the Union placed him on administrative leave. This time around, an independent review led by law firm Littler Mendelson supported the claims against Tanner.
“Based on new information obtained during outside counsel’s independent review, the investigation substantiated violations of MLS policies and standards of professional conduct required of league and club leadership,” MLS said in a statement. “MLS is committed to fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and accountability. We will continue working to ensure our clubs reflect those principles at every level of the organization.”
MLS added that prior to his reinstatement, Tanner must successfully complete a league-approved restorative practices program.
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The report from The Guardian outlined several disparaging remarks allegedly made by Tanner, such as saying that “women should be in the kitchen, not being referees.” He would also reportedly speak about Black players, coaches and referees “like they were subhuman,” among other comments.
“I regret the impact that this situation has had on the Philadelphia Union organization and its supporters,” Tanner said in a statement on Monday. “I remain proud of my work with the Philadelphia Union and look forward to my return and future work with the team.”
The Union won the Supporters Shield in 2025 as the club with the best overall regular season record before losing in the MLS Cup Eastern Conference semifinals to New York City FC.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Philadelphia Union sporting director suspended for racist, sexist comments
