More fallout is coming from the U.S. Soccer-commissioned investigation into systemic abuse and sexual misconduct in the NWSL.
Chicago Red Stars players have called on owner Arnim Whisler to sell his stake after the report — launched following allegations against former Portland Thorns and North Carolina coach Paul Riley — revealed Whisler repeatedly dismissed allegations against former Red Stars coach Rory Dames.
- The verbal and emotional abuse claims, which Whisler was aware of “for decades,” date back to 2014, but he took no immediate action to protect players.
- Last week, Whisler said he would step away from his duties on the NWSL board of governors, as well as give up operational control of the club.
- The Red Stars voted to remove Whisler as chairman of the board, and the board reportedly wants to facilitate a sale, too.
“We are united with the board of directors in their decision to remove Whisler from the organization entirely and look forward to finding a new majority owner,” the players’ statement reads.
The club is valued at a little more than $3.5 million, according to Forbes.
Other Outcomes
The investigation has affected teams across the league.
Orlando Pride head coach Amanda Cromwell and assistant coach Sam Greene have had their contracts terminated for engaging in “retaliatory conduct” toward players.
Alaska Airlines announced it would redirect its money from the Portland Thorns and Timbers after the investigation revealed owner Merritt Paulson had been supportive of Riley despite the allegations. Paulson stepped down as CEO on Tuesday.
