Major League Soccer’s review of DC United’s head coach hiring process found that the team has not fully met its obligations under MLS’ diversity hiring policy. The policy states that “the pool of finalists must include at least two of his nominees from underrepresented groups, and at least one nominee must be black or African American.” ” is required.
DC United met with two qualified candidates, but only one was considered a ‘finalist candidate’ interview. As a result, the team was fined $25,000.
“DC United relied on a statement made by one of the candidate’s agents that the candidate understood that they were interviewing as a finalist for an open coaching position, but the club I have learned that candidates cannot pursue open positions during the period,” the press release said. “Once the club understands that the candidate is not the right candidate for the position, the discussion will no longer be considered a ‘finalist candidate’ interview. Clubs are therefore obliged to either include additional candidates from underrepresented groups into the ‘finalist pool’ or request a waiver from MLS detailing the extenuating circumstances under which they are unable to do so. I was. ”
The franchise has hired football legend Wayne Rooney, who played two seasons with the club from 2018-2019, as its head coach this past July.
(Photo: Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images)
