Salt Lake City, August 13, 2025
News Summary
The Major League Soccer Disciplinary Committee issued fines and warnings to several players and teams for various violations during Matchday 28. Key incidents included players failing to vacate the field promptly and mass confrontations. Notable players fined include Diego Luna of Real Salt Lake and Édier Ocampo of Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The disciplinary measures aim to maintain the integrity and sportsmanship within the league as the season progresses.
Salt Lake City – The Major League Soccer (MLS) Disciplinary Committee has issued fines and warnings to several players and teams following incidents reported during Matchday 28 of the 2025 MLS season. The sanctions involve violations related to failing to leave the field promptly and mass confrontations, among others.
Real Salt Lake midfielder Diego Luna has been fined for not vacating the field in a timely manner during the 85th minute of a match against the New York Red Bulls on August 10. Likewise, Vancouver Whitecaps FC defender Édier Ocampo received a fine for a similar violation in the 27th minute of the match against the San Jose Earthquakes on August 9.
In another disciplinary action, St. Louis CITY SC forward Sang Bin Jeong was fined for making an inappropriate gesture during the 66th minute of his team’s game against Nashville SC on August 9. Additionally, Philadelphia Union and Toronto FC faced penalties under the Mass Confrontation Policy. Both teams were found in violation of this policy during the 77th minute of their match on the same day. The Philadelphia Union has previously violated this policy earlier this season, leading to fines for the club and head coach Bradley Carnell. In contrast, Toronto FC received an official warning for their first-time violation under this policy, and head coach Robin Fraser was also cautioned.
Players from both teams faced sanctions as well. Philadelphia Union’s goalkeeper Andre Blake, midfielder Quinn Sullivan, and forward Mikael Uhre were fined for their roles in inciting a mass confrontation. Toronto FC’s defender Richie Laryea and midfielder Deybi Flores were also fined for similar infractions.
Furthermore, FC Cincinnati found itself in violation of the Mass Confrontation Policy during the 70th minute of their match against Charlotte FC on August 10. As it was their first violation this season, the club and head coach Pat Noonan received official warnings. Multiple FC Cincinnati players, including defenders Miles Robinson, Matt Miazga, Lukas Engel, DeAndre Yedlin, midfielder Evander, and forward Gerardo Valenzuela, were fined for escalating the confrontation.
Other notable disciplinary actions included Jackson Travis of the Colorado Rapids, fined for not leaving the field swiftly during the sixth minute against LAFC on July 9, and Denis Bouanga from LAFC, fined for kicking an object towards fans in the same match. Additionally, Brian Gutiérrez from Chicago Fire FC was suspended for one match and fined for violent conduct during a match against Columbus Crew on February 22, while Inter Miami CF forwards Luis Suárez and Lionel Messi were fined for violating the hands-to-the-face policy during their match against New York City FC on the same date.
Finally, among other penalties, Kamal Miller of Portland Timbers was fined for leaving the field late during a match against Whitecaps FC on February 23, and Gabriel Pec from LA Galaxy was fined for simulation or embellishment against D.C. United.
Background on Recent Disciplinary Actions
The MLS Disciplinary Committee regularly reviews match footage and player conduct to ensure compliance with league standards. Violations can result in various consequences, from fines to match suspensions, aimed at maintaining the integrity of the league and the safety of players and fans.
FAQs
What is the Mass Confrontation Policy in MLS?
The Mass Confrontation Policy aims to penalize teams and players who engage in or incite public confrontations on the field, thus preserving sportsmanship and reducing violence.
What are common reasons for players being fined in MLS?
Players can be fined for various infractions, including failure to leave the field promptly, making inappropriate gestures, violating policy standards, and involvement in mass confrontations.
What actions can a coach face if their team violates a policy?
Coaches may receive fines or warnings depending on the nature and frequency of the team’s violations. Repeat offenders may face more severe sanctions.
Key Disciplinary Outcomes from Matchday 28
| Team | Player | Violation | Action Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Salt Lake | Diego Luna | Failure to leave field | Fine |
| Vancouver Whitecaps FC | Édier Ocampo | Failure to leave field | Fine |
| St. Louis CITY SC | Sang Bin Jeong | Inappropriate gesture | Fine |
| Philadelphia Union | Players | Mass Confrontation | Fines & Coach fined |
| Toronto FC | Players | Mass Confrontation | Fines & Coach warned |
| FC Cincinnati | Players | Mass Confrontation | Fines & Coach warned |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Injuries and Suspensions Challenge MLS Teams Ahead of Matches
Additional Resources
- MLS Soccer: Diego Luna Fined
- Google Search: MLSSoccer disciplinary committee
- MLS Soccer: Denis Bouanga Fined
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- Front Row Soccer: Brian Gutiérrez Suspension
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Disciplinary Action
- MLS Soccer: Gabriel Pec Fined
- Google News: MLS disciplinary committee latest
- Hudson River Blue: Messi Controversy
- Google Scholar: MLS player conduct
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
