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CF Montreal bans two fans for antisemitism, suspends supporter section
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Canada /Culture & Society

CF Montreal bans two fans for antisemitism, suspends supporter section

From Global News · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • CF Montreal has banned two fans and suspended privileges for a supporter section following an MLS investigation into antisemitic language.
  • The investigation stemmed from an Aug. 1 game where antisemitic remarks were directed at New England Revolution forward Dor Turgeman.
  • The club is committed to eradicating hate speech and enhancing anti-discrimination initiatives, vowing to permanently ban anyone involved in such behavior.

CF Montreal has taken decisive action against two fans and suspended benefits for a supporter section after an investigation by Major League Soccer uncovered antisemitic language directed at an opposing player.

The club announced Saturday that it cooperated fully with the league's probe, which originated from incidents during an Aug. 1 game against the New England Revolution at Stade Saputo. Two individuals have been permanently banned for throwing objects and violating the MLS Fan Code of Conduct. Additionally, all official supporter group privileges for Saturday's match against D.C. United were suspended, and privileges for the specific supporter section implicated in the investigation are indefinitely suspended.

"Antisemitism, racism, and hate of any kind have no place at CF Montreal, Stade Saputo, or within our community," the club stated. CF Montreal emphasized its commitment to identifying and permanently barring any individuals involved in antisemitic chants or discriminatory behavior from club events.

Antisemitism, racism, and hate of any kind have no place at CF Montreal, Stade Saputo, or within our community

โ€” CF MontrealThe club's statement affirming its zero-tolerance policy towards hate speech.

The team has been actively engaging with local Jewish community organizations to strengthen its anti-discrimination initiatives. These efforts include expanded in-stadium education, direct engagement with supporters, and enhanced security measures. The club stressed that hate speech harms not only individuals but also teammates, families, employees, and the broader community, underscoring a shared responsibility to stand against hate and foster a safe, respectful environment.

CF Montreal also extended an apology to the New England Revolution, who had previously issued a statement condemning the antisemitism directed at forward Dor Turgeman. The club is dedicated to ensuring Stade Saputo remains a welcoming venue for players, supporters, employees, and guests from all backgrounds.

Hate speech does not impact just one player or one individual. Its harm extends to teammates, supporters, families, employees and the broader community. We all share a responsibility to stand against hate and to foster an environment where every person feels safe and respected.

โ€” CF MontrealThe club's statement on the broader impact of hate speech and the shared responsibility to combat it.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Global News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.