Due to concerns over impartiality, Guiherme Ceretta was removed from officiating the upcoming MLS match between Inter Miami and Orlando City, as announced by the Professional Referees Organization (PRO).
This decision came to light after images surfaced on social media showing Ceretta in Inter Miami apparel, leading to allegations of a conflict of interest. Jaime Herrera has been named as his replacement for the match.
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This late change, made just hours before the game, raises questions about the timing of the action, given that the issue had been identified earlier. The remainder of the officiating team for the game will proceed as originally planned.
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The upcoming match between Inter Miami and Orlando City at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale is caught in the midst of MLS’s officiating dilemma. Dubbed the ‘Clasico del Sol’, this encounter marks one of the season’s most awaited clashes, spotlighting Florida’s premier soccer rivalry.
The backdrop of this match is particularly tumultuous, given the league’s referees are currently on strike. This labor dispute arose from unsuccessful negotiations over a collective bargaining agreement, leading to the deployment of substitute referees to manage the season’s games.
As the third round of MLS action unfolds, the situation underscores the challenges facing the league in ensuring the smooth conduct of its matches amidst the ongoing officiating crisis.
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