Greek forward Taxiarchis “Taxi” Fountas has parted ways with DC United following a renewed investigation into allegations of racial abuse. This comes after a prior investigation into the player’s use of a racial insult, which he vehemently denied, as reported by AFP.
In a statement on Thursday, Major League Soccer (MLS) revealed, “DC United and forward Taxi Fountas have mutually agreed to terminate his contract, effective immediately.” The decision follows Fountas being placed on administrative leave on July 21 in response to credible accusations of using discriminatory language towards another player.
The league and its teams are unwavering in their commitment to eradicating racism from the sport, affirming, “Major League Soccer and its clubs are committed to eradicating racism from the game.”
DC United reaffirmed this standpoint, declaring, “Our sport and the world at large have no room for racism, homophobia, misogyny, or any form of discrimination, and DC United vehemently condemns any such behaviors.”
The exact details leading to the suspension on July 21 were not provided at the time. However, The Athletic reported that Fountas’ Dutch teammate, Nigel Robertha, had lodged a complaint regarding a racial insult allegedly directed at him by the Greek striker during a match.
In a separate incident in 2022, during a game against Inter Miami, Fountas found himself in a clash with Miami defender Damion Lowe, and he faced accusations of using a racial slur. Fountas vehemently denied the charge, and following an investigation, MLS stated that while the allegation was “credible,” it couldn’t be independently verified.
