Flamengo issue statement GA Cup racism - after pulling out of third-place game at MLS-run youth tournament

Players from the Brazilian outfit, along with the Philadelphia Union, have been suspended following a series of incidents during their semi-final clash. Two players from Flamengo picked up red cards in that contest, while the team's assistant coach was sent from the touchline – triggering an investigation into what occurred.

One of the red cards handed out is said to have been the result of a “banned term” being used, while Flamengo allege that a Union player made discriminatory remarks. MLS has declined to identify the players involved due to their status as minors.

Flamengo have, however, responded to the allegations made against them by saying: “Flamengo strongly repudiates what happened… when some athletes from our squad were victims of racial insults. It’s unacceptable that episodes like this continue to happen. Racism is a crime and must be harshly punished, wherever it may be.”

MLS said in a statement of its own, following a number of concerning incidents in the Generation Adidas (GA) Cup event: “This behavior is entirely unacceptable, violates the rules of the competition, and our collective effort to ensure a respectful and inclusive environment for all.” They added that an “extensive review” would be taking place, which will lead to the “adoption of best practices from MLS first-team competitions.”

The news regarding Flamengo and the Philadelphia Union comes a matter of days after the New York Red Bulls withdrew from the competition in question following two incidents of on-field racism during their games against Monterrey and Hajduk Split, with the decision taken to remove U17 and U15 teams from the event. They said: “There is no room for discrimination around competitive play. As an organization, we stand together with our players on and off the pitch.”