Seattle Sounders FC has always stood for inclusion and ensuring that all communities feel welcome as part of our club. We are all Sounders.
Following our last home match versus FC Dallas on October 30, we heard directly from members of our community that they did not feel welcome or safe due to violations of our updated Fan Code of Conduct.
Entering the MLS Cup Playoffs, our club updated its Fan Code of Conduct to prohibit the flags of either Israel or Palestine inside Lumen Field. This temporary policy is also inclusive of signs, banners and tifos that reference the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict. This decision was made to ensure public safety and to make all fans feel secure against the backdrop of the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Israel and Gaza. We are also acting in accordance with Major League Soccer’s updated directives on this matter by fostering an inclusive environment, free from divisive discourse and messages that may be incendiary or spark unrest.
During the October 30 match, we observed flags that violated our updated Fan Code of Conduct being raised inside the stadium. Sounders FC followed its existing protocols to have those flags taken down. Following the contest, the individuals that violated the Fan Code of Conduct were identified and have subsequently received match bans.
As we look ahead to Friday’s MLS Cup Playoffs match, further violations of our policy will not be tolerated. Any items that violate our Fan Code of Conduct will be immediately removed, and individuals that refuse removal of said items will be ejected from Lumen Field and issued match bans.
Every member of our community has the right to come to a Sounders FC match and feel safe and welcomed. Our last match fell short of this obligation, and we will do everything in our power to ensure a secure fan experience at Friday’s game.
