League and Clubs Launch Investigation into Stade Saputo Incident
Major League Soccer (MLS) has confirmed an ongoing investigation into reports of antisemitic and discriminatory language directed at New England Revolution forward Dor Turgeman during Saturday’s match against CF Montréal. The incident, which occurred at Stade Saputo, involved audible chants of “free Palestine” captured by broadcast microphones as Turgeman prepared to score.
The New England Revolution issued a formal statement on Monday condemning the behavior and confirming they have reported the incident to league officials. CF Montréal also released a statement on Sunday, asserting that the club maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding discriminatory or hateful conduct and is currently reviewing the events to determine appropriate follow-up actions.
Context of the Incident
The tension escalated in the 36th minute after Turgeman scored to give the Revolution a 2-0 lead. The 22-year-old striker responded to the crowd by standing before the home supporters' section with outstretched arms, subsequently walking the length of the section with a hand to his ear. The match concluded in a 2-2 draw.
This investigation follows a period of heightened sensitivity regarding geopolitical displays within MLS venues. Since October 2023, the league has maintained a ban on Israeli and Palestinian flags, with narrow exceptions permitted only when a player of that nationality is on a team's active roster. The league previously addressed discriminatory conduct in February 2025, when it condemned Los Angeles FC investor Ruben Gnanalingam for social media posts deemed anti-Israel.
Next Steps
MLS officials have not provided a timeline for the conclusion of the investigation. The league’s findings will determine whether individual supporters are identified and if further disciplinary measures are applied to the club or those involved in the chants.