MLS Suspends RSL Head Coach Mike Petke For Three Games

SANDY, Utah – Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has issued a three-game suspension and a $25,000 fine to Real Salt Lake head coach Mike Petke.

The suspension stems from actions after RSL’s Leagues Cup match against Tigres on July 24. Petke received a red card after confronting the official. He will also receive an additional three game suspension by the Leagues Cup.

Petke has already served one MLS game in RSL’s 0-0 draw against Dallas. He will miss the match at home against New York City FC on Saturday and on the road against Sporting Kansas City on August 10.

Assistant coach Freddy Juarez will be in charge during Petke’s absence.

The club issued the following statement:

“We hold everyone in our organization – particularly the leadership – to the highest standards and expect them to treat everyone with dignity and respect. We have the utmost respect for the referees, PRO and Major League Soccer and will be working with the League to ensure that everyone in our organization treats all referees, players, coaches and fans with the dignity, respect, civility and professionalism that is consistent with our values. Although we appreciate Coach Petke’s passion and drive to win, it should never come at the expense of those values. We support and agree with the League’s decision on this matter. Real Salt Lake will additionally be suspending Coach Petke from all club activity for two weeks, without pay. In addition, he will be required to attend anger management courses to help remedy what has been a recurring issue and he will be required to issue written apologies to both the League and the individual referees. As a Club we apologize to our fans for this incident and going forward will continue to demand that all staff adhere to the highest personal standards, without excuse.”