UEFA demand Sunil Gulati explanation for ignoring NWSL harassment

Soccer’s governing body in Europe is asking questions to Sunil Gulati regarding his involvement in the Sally Yates report on NWSL harassment and abuse, according to a report in The Daily Mail. The scandal in the National Women’s Soccer League rocked the sports world. Former Attorney General Sally Yates uncovered multiple substantiated allegations of abusive behavior and sexual misconduct in the report.

Previously, Gulati served as President of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) from 2006 to 2018. During his time as president of the federation, Gulati heard of multiple allegations of misconduct. Gulati, however, reportedly ignored these verbal and sexual abuse claims, according to the report.

After departing the USSF, Gulati signed on as the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) chairman in 2021. He arrived at the organization as a close ally of UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. Gulati helped UEFA implement new financial rules to clubs in the continent. UEFA introduced these rules earlier this year as a replacement to the Financial Fair Play (FFP) system.

However, UEFA, led by Ceferin, is now demanding answers on what Gulati knew and when.

Sunil Gulati avoided NWSL harassment

UEFA has apparently declined to comment on the issue, but are looking to have extensive discussions with Gulati.

The Yates report initially focused on three coaches within the women’s soccer league. Former Racing Louisville coach Christy Holly, former Portland Thorns coach Paul Riley, and former Chicago Red Stars coach Rory Dames all faced damning allegations of misconduct during their time in the league.

Also, Portland Timbers and Thorns owner Merritt Paulson stepped down as CEO of both clubs in wake of the Sally Yates report.

However, as the report has surfaced, other victims have come forward to tell their stories. Last week, current USSF president Cindy Parlow Cone stated at least three more cases arrived since then. It certainly seems as if the Yates report was only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to misconduct allegations in the NWSL.

PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire