Greek striker Fountas released by DC United after racism probe

Greek international forward Taxiarchis Fountas has been released by Major League Soccer club DC United after the player was investigated for allegations of racial abuse.

The 27-year-old Fountas was also involved in a previous investigation last year when he denied using a racial insult.

"DC United and forward Taxi Fountas have mutually agreed to terminate his contract, effective immediately," MLS said in a statement on Thursday.

"Fountas was placed on administrative leave on July 21 following credible allegations that he used prohibited and discriminatory language against another player. Major League Soccer and its clubs are committed to eradicating racism from the game," the league said.

The club issued a similar statement confirming the player's departure and added: "There is no place for racism, homophobia, misogyny, or discrimination of any kind in our sport and world and DC United do not tolerate any acts of this nature."

No reasons were cited for the specific reasons for the suspension when the sanction was applied on July 21 but The Athletic reported that Fountas' Dutch teammate Nigel Robertha had complained of receiving a racial insult, from the Greek striker during a clash on the field.

In the previous incident in 2022, in a game against Inter Miami, Fountas had clashed with Miami defender Damion Lowe and faced accusations of using a racial epithet.

Fountas denied the charge and after an investigation, MLS said that the allegation was "credible" but could not be independently verified.