Major League Soccer has concluded an investigation into Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner following multiple allegations of inappropriate workplace behaviour, including claims of sexist, racist and homophobic comments.
Multiple Allegations Surface
The investigation was prompted by a formal complaint filed by the MLS Players Association in January, which detailed several incidents spanning Tanner's seven-year tenure with the Union. The Guardian obtained and reviewed the complaint, which MLS confirmed it had received.
Among the most serious allegations is an incident from June 2023 during a match against San Jose Earthquakes. Tanner allegedly made a homophobic remark about referee Nima Saghafi, stating loudly enough for nearby fans to hear: "Why don't you just kiss him, you faggot." Multiple sources confirmed witnessing the incident or being told about it shortly afterwards.
Seventeen different sources have come forward with allegations against Tanner, including current and former Union employees. The claims paint a picture of a sporting executive whose public success contrasts sharply with private behaviour described as inappropriate and discriminatory.
Pattern of Alleged Discrimination
The allegations extend beyond isolated incidents to include multiple claims of sexist and racist behaviour. Sources allege Tanner made numerous misogynistic comments, including stating that "women don't belong in men's soccer" about female MLS referee Tori Penso and telling academy players they "should never worry about a referee, unless she's a woman."
Regarding racial matters, multiple sources claim Tanner spoke about Black players "like they were subhuman" and suggested Black referees "lack intelligence and capability." One specific allegation involves Tanner criticising a Black player's perceived lack of speed by saying "It's like he's not even Black."
In 2019, a complaint was filed with Union HR alleging Tanner engaged in inappropriate physical contact with a club employee, grabbing their buttocks "numerous times." The Guardian reviewed emails supporting this allegation, and nine sources familiar with the incidents confirmed they occurred.
MLS Investigation and Response
MLS confirmed it launched an investigation immediately after receiving the MLSPA complaint. The league stated it contacted more than a dozen current and former players and employees, with a majority participating in the investigation.
Although the investigation concluded without corroborating the allegations, MLS required Tanner to complete a "structured remedial program focused on professional workplace conduct." This marks at least the second such training Tanner has undergone, in addition to the Union's annual sensitivity training.
Through his attorney, Tanner firmly denied all accusations, stating: "Throughout his career spanning over three decades in professional soccer around the globe, Mr. Tanner has worked fairly and effectively in a diverse, multi-cultural world upholding high standards of professionalism."
The Philadelphia Union acknowledged that early in Tanner's tenure, he was found to have made "potentially insensitive gender-based comments" and underwent training and discussions with club leadership. The club stated it takes all allegations seriously and maintains commitment to a safe, respectful environment.
Success Amid Controversy
Despite the allegations, Tanner has built an impressive record with the Union. Under his leadership, the club has qualified for playoffs every year except 2024, made the 2022 MLS Cup final, and won two Supporters' Shields (2020 and 2025).
The 2025 team finished with the league's best record while spending only about $11 million on players - approximately one-third of what star-studded Inter Miami pays its squad. Tanner's shrewd management has generated about $43 million through player sales, often from academy products.
Multiple sources expressed concern about the power dynamic, with one stating: "You wonder, how many lives does this dude have?" Another added: "To ownership, Ernst has done his job. Why would I get rid of the guy who's done this for me?"
MLS maintains an anonymous reporting hotline and retains the right to reopen the investigation if additional information emerges. The Union similarly committed to acting quickly should new information surface.
