Overview

• Major League Soccer (MLS) has suspended Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner for three games following racial abuse allegations.
• The suspension was enforced following Wagner's violation of the league’s on-field anti-discrimination policy, allegedly using a racist slur towards New England Revolution defender Bobby Wood, of Asian descent.
• Wagner, from Germany, admitted to the allegations and has shown immediate acceptance of responsibility, cooperativeness with the league's investigation and willingness to engage in a restorative practices process to remedy the harm caused.
• Wagner's suspension commences with Wednesday's playoff match against the Revolution and could extend to the third playoff game if necessary. If the Union are eliminated before the third game, the remainder of Wagner's suspension will carry over to the 2024 season.
• As part of the disciplinary action, Wagner is also required to continue participating in league-controlled education and training sessions - a step towards ensuring full compliance with a restorative practices process directed by a league-appointed expert.