Major League Soccer released an updated Fan Code of Conduct ahead of the 2020 season following consultation with the Independent Supporters Council (ISC), as well as members of Timbers Army and Emerald City Supporters:
The revisions include a clarification of the conduct, signage and language that is not permitted at league events during the upcoming season, including:
- Displaying signs, symbols, images, using language or making gestures that are threatening, abusive, or discriminatory, including on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, ability, and/or sexual orientation.
- Displaying signs, symbols or images for commercial purposes or for electioneering, campaigning or advocating for or against any candidate, political party, legislative issue, or government action.
“This new language is a significant, positive step in the relationship between the fans and the league they support,” ISC president Bailey Brown said in a statement. “We want to thank the MLS officials for consulting with the ISC in developing this language for 2020 and beyond, and we’re looking forward to continuing our dialogue on the interactions between fans, teams, players, and the league.”
MLS officials and the ISC worked together to develop portions of the Fan Code of Conduct with feedback from other organizations, including input from social justice organizations, crowd management specialists and other leagues and clubs in North America and abroad.
The MLS Fan Code of Conduct continues to prohibit conduct that is unruly, disruptive, threatening or violent in nature, and provides for a range of sanctions for violations of the policy.
The 25th MLS season kicks off on Saturday, February 29 with a full slate of 13 matches scheduled for Week 1.
