D.C. United Terminates Contract with Taxi Fountas Amidst Racial Slur Allegations
D.C. United, a Major League Soccer team, announced on Thursday that it has reached an agreement with Taxi Fountas to mutually terminate his contract. The decision comes after Fountas was embroiled in an ongoing league investigation regarding allegations of using a racial slur towards his now-former teammate, Nigel Robertha. This is the second time Fountas has faced such allegations, with the first occurring in 2022 when he was placed on leave after an Inter Miami player accused him of using the “N-word” during a game.
In both instances, Major League Soccer found the allegations against Fountas to be credible but was unable to conclusively prove them. However, this time, the league took action and characterized the allegation as credible, leading to the termination of Fountas’ contract.
The incident allegedly occurred during D.C. United’s game against the New England Revolution in mid-July. Sources familiar with the investigation stated that Fountas and Robertha were arguing on the field when Fountas directed the racial slur towards Robertha. After the match, Robertha allegedly struck Fountas with a foam roller, and later accused Fountas of using the slur. Both players were subsequently placed on leave, with Robertha being reinstated a week later.
During the investigation, no other players interviewed reported hearing Fountas use the slur. Fountas has consistently denied the allegations and even commissioned a polygraph test in an attempt to clear his name.
In response to the termination of Fountas’ contract, D.C. United released a statement emphasizing that they do not tolerate any acts of racism or discrimination. Major League Soccer also stated its commitment to eradicating racism from the sport.
With Fountas’ departure, a designated player spot has opened up in D.C. United’s roster. While the summer transfer window in MLS has just closed, the team may have the option to add a free agent or place one of their players who earns above the senior max as the third designated player.
D.C. United had been attempting to find a buyer for Fountas for several months before his contract termination. His departure leaves a void in the team’s attack, as Fountas had been the second-leading scorer behind Christian Benteke.
Looking ahead, D.C. United will likely be seeking an attacking boost to complement Benteke, who is currently the team’s leading scorer. Some possible free-agent options include Jesse Lingard, former teammate of D.C. manager Wayne Rooney, and Alfredo Morelos, whose contract with Rangers recently expired.
The termination of Fountas’ contract brings an end to the league’s investigation into the allegations against him. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat racism and discrimination in soccer and beyond.