BREAKING: Whitecaps coach Vanni Sartini Receives Reprieve as MLS reduces ban by two games
Vancouver Whitecaps coach Vanni Sartini has received leniency from Major League Soccer. Following a “successful petition,” his initial six-game suspension has been reduced by two matches, allowing the Italian to resume his role on the sidelines for the March 30 game against the Portland Timbers.
Sartini faced disciplinary action for his behavior both during and after the 1-0 defeat to Los Angeles FC on Nov. 5 at B.C. Place Stadium, which marked the end of the Whitecaps’ playoff aspirations. In addition to being sent off in the 95th minute, Sartini criticized referee Tim Ford’s performance as “disgraceful” and made a questionable remark about being a suspect if Ford were to meet an untimely end.
In addition to the automatic one-match suspension for the red card, Sartini received a further five-game ban for various infractions, including entering the field of play in a confrontational manner and publicly criticizing the officiating following the match. He was also fined $20,000 and required to undergo a league-approved behavioral assessment.
NEWS | MLS announced that the suspension issued to #VWFC head coach Vanni Sartini will be reduced by two games, following a successful petition.
Sartini will now be on the sidelines for Vancouver’s match against Portland Timbers on Saturday, March 30.
— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) March 18, 2024
The union representing North American soccer referees strongly condemned Sartini’s remarks, labeling them as “disgusting” and indicative of an alarming escalation in rhetoric against officials.
Sartini expressed regret for his comments during the Whitecaps’ end-of-season media briefing and stated that he had made amends with MLS’ professional referee organization. “I apologize, there was no ill intent,” he remarked. “I could have handled the situation much better, and for that, I am sorry.”
Sartini will be eligible to return to coaching duties after serving the final game of the reduced suspension against Real Salt Lake. Despite his absence, the Whitecaps have continued to perform well under assistant coach Michael D’Agostino’s guidance. Currently boasting a record of 2-0-1, Vancouver sits second in the Western Conference standings, having maintained momentum even without their colorful coach on the sidelines.
Throughout his suspension, Sartini has been prohibited from accessing the Whitecaps’ locker room and field level, and he is forbidden from communicating with the team or club staff from 90 minutes before kickoff until the final whistle. However, he has been permitted to oversee training sessions and other team-related activities. Additionally, the MLS ban did not extend to preseason or CONCACAF Champions Cup matches.