February 11 – Main League Soccer (MLS) opens its 2025 season on February 22, nonetheless, LAFC have already hit the information in controversial trend as part-owner, Ruben Gnanalingam, was pressured to apologise for anti-Israel posts on social media.
Each MLS and LAFC have been essential of Gnanalingam (pictured left), after the Jewish Chronicle reported that the Malaysian businessman reposted messages on his LinkedIn web page, together with feedback urging “armies” to “dismantle” Israel and one which in contrast the struggle in Gaza with the Holocaust.
Gnanalingam, who can be vice chairman of second-division English membership Queen’s Park Rangers, mentioned in an announcement he deeply regretted that content material on his social media account induced misery and concern.
“It was by no means my intention to offend or hurt anybody, and I take accountability for not exercising better warning earlier than sharing these posts,” he wrote. “I sincerely apologise to these affected, together with my colleagues, buddies, and household.
“As somebody who values unity, variety, and respect for all individuals, I take full accountability for my actions and have since eliminated the reposts. I’ve determined to step away from social media for the foreseeable future to give attention to my skilled tasks and guarantee my communication displays the values and excessive requirements anticipated of me as a worldwide enterprise chief.”
In a joint assertion, MLS and LAFC condemned Gnanalingam’s reposts.
“MLS and LAFC imagine in unity and we stand firmly in opposition to hate in any type,” they mentioned. “The League is at the moment reviewing the state of affairs and can have no additional remark right now.”
LAFC open up their season at BMO Stadium in opposition to Minnesota United. The LA membership are additionally the US Open Cup Champions, nonetheless they won’t be defending their title, opting as a substitute to play within the Leagues Cup.
Contact the author of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1739233082labto1739233082ofdlr1739233082owedi1739233082sni@o1739233082fni1739233082