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USL Championship Suspends Kevin Partida for Use of Foul and Abusive Language

By USLChampionship.com Staff, 05/12/23, 1:00PM EDT

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Orange County SC midfielder to serve six-game suspension following investigation

TAMPA, Fla. — The USL Championship has concluded an investigation into allegations of foul and abusive language from an Orange County SC player towards a San Diego Loyal SC player during their match on Saturday, May 6. 

In the 57th minute of the game, Orange County SC’s Kevin Partida allegedly directed a homophobic slur towards a San Diego Loyal SC player that was witnessed by multiple players on the field. The center official consulted with the players and assistant referees before bringing the allegations to the attention of both clubs’ coaching staffs in accordance with league policy. Partida apologized to members of San Diego Loyal SC before being substituted out of the game by the Orange County SC coaching staff and was immediately suspended from team activities by the club pending the result of the league investigation. 

Following video review and interviews with the players, officials and coaching staffs, the Foul and Abusive Language Panel concluded that a homophobic slur was used in violation of the league’s zero-tolerance policy related to any form of harassment or discrimination. The player, USLPA and both clubs accepted the outcome of the investigation and, as a result, Partida must complete mandatory sensitivity training and has been suspended for six games and fined an undisclosed amount. 

The United Soccer League, USLPA, Orange County SC and San Diego Loyal SC stand united in the belief that soccer is for everyone and there is no place for hate in the beautiful game.  

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