CF Montreal has indefinitely banned two fans for throwing objects on the pitch during a match that were directed at Israeli-born soccer forward Dor Turgeman of the New England Revolution, which was playing CF Montreal at Stade Saputo on Aug. 1.
Also heard during that match were shouts against Israel.
A statement from CF Montreal released Saturday Aug. 15 says that during the Aug. 1 match, it was “made aware of reports that antisemitic hate speech was used by fans during a match and directed toward a New England Revolution player.
“Antisemitism, racism, and hate of any kind have no place at CF Montréal, Stade Saputo, or within our community. We sincerely apologize to the entire New England organization, and all those impacted by this unacceptable conduct.”
CF Montreal added that Major League Soccer conducted an investigation “with full cooperation by the club, and as a result of conduct identified through that process, CF Montreal has issued indefinite bans to two individuals for throwing objects and violating the MLS Fan Code of Conduct.
“In addition, all official supporter group privileges (organized groups supporting specific clubs) [were] suspended for the Aug. 15 match against D.C. United, and privileges for the supporter section identified during the investigation will be suspended indefinitely. The club will continue efforts to identify any additional individuals involved, and any person found to have participated in the antisemitic chants, or discriminatory behaviour of any kind, will be permanently banned from club events.”
The Montreal team’s organization also stated that it has “engaged with local Jewish community organizations and welcomes their continued input as the club continues to strengthen its anti-discrimination initiatives through expanded in-stadium education and awareness efforts, engaging directly with supporters, and enhancing security measures.
“Hate speech does not impact just one player or one individual. Its harm extends to teammates, supporters, families, employees, and the broader community. We all share a responsibility to stand against hate and to foster an environment where every person feels safe and respected. The club is committed to ensuring Stade Saputo is a place where players, supporters, employees, and guests of every background feel welcomed.
Jewish community organizations condemned the actions of the actions of the fans at the time, and Israel’s Ambassador to Canada, Iddo Moed said, in light of this and other recent antisemitic incidents in Canada, “the hate must be stopped before it transforms into something lethal. Israel continues to stand ready to be part of the fight against antisemitism in all its forms.”