Andy Carroll, a team executive of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), has taken a leave of absence after he was accused of sexism.
Carroll, who doubles as a team executive of the Major League Soccer (MLS), is alleged to have made some statements regarded as sexist in the workplace.
The team executive serves as the chief business officer for the MLS side Real Salt Lake and NWSL club Utah Royals.
Reports suggest he took part in conversations about the physical appearance of ex-sideline reporter Rebecca Cade.
The report alleges that Carroll requested that Utah Royals players posed so they would look “sexy”.
MLS has hired New York-based law firm Sullivan & Cromwell LLP to oversee its investigation into the culture at RSL, including comments and conduct of owner Dell Loy Hansen and CBO Andy Carroll. pic.twitter.com/bX10IvB3Gm
— Paul Tenorio (@PaulTenorio) September 1, 2020
Meanwhile, a statement from the Utah Soccer expressed disappointment in the conduct of Carroll.
“Utah Soccer was extremely disappointed by the allegations in the recent RSL Soapbox article regarding Mr. Carroll,” the Soccer statement said.
“Mr. Carroll has spent notable time and energy to further the business operations of the organization. Still, Utah Soccer takes these allegations extremely seriously. Utah Soccer prioritizes the safety, well-being, and security of its players and employees above all, and does not tolerate discriminatory or derogatory conduct of any kind.
Can confirm reports that #NWSL and #MLS are launching investigations into #RSL Chief Business Officer Andy Carroll. Carroll is taking an leave of absence immediately. @rslsoapbox first.
— Jeff Carlisle (@JeffreyCarlisle) September 1, 2020
“While Utah Soccer endeavors to learn more about the allegations raised in the article, Mr. Carroll will be taking a leave of absence from the organization until further notice.”
