In Columbus, where Federico Higuaín remains one of the most familiar figures from the Crew’s modern history, the former Argentina midfielder has been removed from his role with the club’s reserve side after allegations involving a female referee.
Higuaín, 41, had been coaching Columbus Crew 2 after spending eight years as a player with the MLS club. His standing from those playing days had made him a popular presence around the Ohio organisation, but the club has now ended his employment following a wider review of the incident.
Columbus said the decision followed discussions during the week and a more detailed examination over the previous month. The club concluded that it had not met the standards required of a team leader and that replacing Higuaín was the best outcome for the club, its players and its staff.
Allegations from the referees’ association
The referees’ association said Higuaín told the official: “Do not forget that this is a men’s sport.” It described the remark as sexist and alleged that it came alongside two deliberate acts of physical aggression.
Among the claims was that Higuaín gripped the referee’s hand forcefully during a handshake and did not release it despite being asked three times to do so. He initially denied the allegations, while Columbus first imposed a two-match suspension.
That disciplinary response changed after the referees’ statement emerged. Columbus have now opted for a permanent separation from a former player whose connection with the club had extended well beyond his coaching position.
