UPDATE (March 18, 2024) – Major League Soccer today announced that the suspension issued to Vancouver Whitecaps FC head coach Vanni Sartini will be reduced by two games, following a successful petition.
In addition to the automatic one-match suspension for the red card, Sartini has served two games of the original five-game suspension and now will serve the final game of the suspension on Saturday, March 23 against Real Salt Lake.
Sartini will be eligible to return to coach in Vancouver’s match against Portland Timbers on Saturday, March 30.
ORIGINAL (Nov. 30, 2023) – Major League Soccer has fined and suspended Vancouver Whitecaps FC head coach Vanni Sartini for multiple violations of league policy on November 5 during, and following, Vancouver’s Audi MLS Cup Playoffs exit against LAFC.
In the 95th minute, Sartini was shown a red card and dismissed from the game by match officials. Along with the automatic one-match suspension that accompanies a red card, MLS has issued an additional five-match suspension for his violation of league policies, including entering the field of play in a confrontational manner and public criticism following the match – totaling six matches overall.
Sartini has also been issued a $20,000 fine and must complete a league-approved behavioral assessment and comply with any recommended treatment.
Sartini will serve his one-match suspension for the red card during Vancouver’s first match of the 2024 MLS regular season followed by an additional five matches during Vancouver’s ensuing regular season games.
Based on his compliance with any recommended treatment programs, Sartini may petition for a reduction of his suspension.
