MLS Player Subjected to Antisemitic Abuse in Montreal Match

MLS Investigates Alleged Antisemitic Abuse Directed at New England Revolution Forward Dor Turgeman

Major League Soccer is investigating alleged antisemitic and discriminatory language directed at New England Revolution forward Dor Turgeman by CF Montréal supporters during a match at Saputo Stadium, according to statements released by both clubs and the league. The incident occurred during a Saturday evening fixture that ended in a 2-2 draw after Montreal recovered from a two-goal halftime deficit.

In a public statement issued Monday afternoon, the New England Revolution identified the targeted player as the 22-year-old native of Ashdod, Israel. The club stated that it immediately reported the occurrence to league officials and has maintained full support for the ongoing investigation. “We are hopeful that those responsible will be held accountable for their unacceptable actions,” the Revolution said, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy toward abuse, harassment, or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, or identity.

CF Montréal Response and League Acknowledgment

CF Montréal first acknowledged the allegations Sunday afternoon, indicating through a club statement that management was taking the matter “very seriously” and maintaining active contact with both league offices and the New England organization. “We will work to establish all the facts and take the necessary actions,” the club noted, reiterating that the organization does not tolerate discrimination or hateful behaviour of any kind.

The initial statement from CF Montréal did not identify Turgeman by name, detail the specific comments made, or clarify whether the supporters involved had been identified or removed from the stadium. Club spokesperson Chris Moore told The Gazette that CF Montréal would decline to provide further comment beyond the text issued Sunday. Meanwhile, league officials confirmed to The Gazette that MLS is actively reviewing the reported language and has remained in dialogue with both teams since Saturday night.

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Government Reaction and Wider Context

Federal Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Marc Miller publicly condemned the incident via social media on Sunday, describing the alleged behaviour as “absolutely sickening” and entirely unacceptable. Miller added that he was encouraged by indications that CF Montréal appeared to be moving quickly to address the situation.

The investigation remains open as league and club officials continue gathering facts from the matchday operations at Saputo Stadium. Neither MLS nor the participating clubs have announced a timeline for concluding the review or releasing disciplinary findings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the New England Revolution say about the incident?

The Revolution issued a statement identifying forward Dor Turgeman as the target of the abuse, confirming they reported the matter immediately to MLS and calling for those responsible to be held accountable under a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination.

Has CF Montréal identified the supporters involved?

In their initial public statements, CF Montréal did not confirm whether the individuals responsible had been identified or ejected from Saputo Stadium, and a club spokesperson declined to offer further comment beyond the team’s official release.

What is the position of Major League Soccer?

MLS confirmed it is aware of the reported antisemitic and discriminatory language directed at a New England Revolution player and stated that league administrators have been in continuous contact with both clubs since the match.

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