Montreal Impact Bans Fans for Anti-Semitic Abuse Against Israeli Player Dor Turgeman

Montreal Impact has indefinitely banned two fans for anti-Semitic chants and throwing objects at Israeli soccer player Dor Turgeman during a recent MLS match. The incident occurred on August 1, when Turgeman scored in a 2-2 draw against Montreal and celebrated in front of opposing fans who had been shouting "Death to Israel" and other hateful remarks throughout the game. After his celebration, Turgeman was pushed by the opposing goalkeeper while bottles were thrown at him from the stands.

Following a full investigation conducted by the MLS and the club, Montreal Impact issued a strong condemnation of the anti-Semitic behavior, stating that such hatred has no place in Montreal, Saputo Stadium, or the community. The club apologized deeply to the New England Revolution organization and anyone affected by the unacceptable conduct. As part of the sanctions, the official fan organizations’ privileges were suspended for the upcoming game against D.C. United, and the section identified during the investigation was suspended indefinitely.

Montreal Impact also pledged to continue efforts to identify any other individuals involved and to permanently ban anyone found participating in discriminatory behavior. The club has engaged with local Jewish community groups and is expanding educational and security measures to combat discrimination and foster a safe, respectful environment for players, fans, and staff at Saputo Stadium. The club emphasized that hateful speech harms not only the targeted player but the entire team, fans, families, and broader community, underscoring a collective responsibility to stand against hatred.