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

Flamengo have issued a statement on alleged racism at the MLS-run GA Cup after withdrawing from their third-place game at the tournament.

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• Brazilian outfit withdrew from competition
• New York Red Bulls had already done likewise
• MLS to carry out an 'extensive review'

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  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.

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• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  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.

• WHAT FLAMENGO SAID

  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.”

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• DID YOU KNOW?

  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.”