The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) has sharply criticized MLS NEXT Pro for what it calls insufficient punishment of Columbus Crew 2 manager Federico Higuain following an Aug. 23 incident with a female referee. Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN that Higuain squeezed the official's hand during the postgame handshake after Crew 2's match against Huntsville City FC, refusing to release it despite being told three times to stop, and made a sexist remark: "Don't forget that this is a man's game."

MLS NEXT Pro investigated and suspended Higuain for two games and ordered restorative practice training, which he has begun but not completed. The PSRA argues U.S. Soccer policy mandates a minimum three-game suspension for both a "forceful grab" and acts of discrimination. The union stated the league's response "falls drastically short" and needs reevaluation.

MLS NEXT Pro defended its process, citing a "restorative approach" focused on understanding and accountability. The Columbus Crew said it fully accepted the discipline. A source indicated the league views U.S. Soccer's minimum suspensions as guidelines rather than mandatory requirements, though Policy 202-2 Section 2 states professional leagues "shall adopt and enforce policies" meeting minimum criteria, including at least six matches for referee assault.