MLS Investigating Allegations of Racial Slur Use by Philadelphia Union's Kai Wagner against New England's Bobby Wood
Alleged incident during MLS Cup playoff match; Wagner accused of using a German racial slur against Wood who is of Japanese and African American descent.
- The Major League Soccer (MLS) is conducting an investigation into allegations that Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner directed a racial slur at New England Revolution forward Bobby Wood during an MLS Cup playoff match.
- The alleged racial slur, used in German, was reportedly directed at Wood's Japanese heritage. Wood, who also speaks German, is of Japanese and African American descent, while Wagner is a native of Germany.
- The accusations came forward after teammates relayed the incident from Wood to the New England bench, which was then reported to the match's fourth official. The official informed referee Pierre-Luc Lauziere, triggering the league investigation.
- The Union and the Revolution have yet to comment on the allegations. MLS has likewise stated that while they are aware of the situation, they will not make further comments while the review is in progress.
- The controversy comes amid Wagner's likely departure from the Union, as he is in the final year of his contract with the team. Despite fan support for a raise to keep him on the team, Wagner's future with the club remains uncertain.
The Philadelphia Inquirer 
ESPN 