Investigation Launched Into Austin FC Academy for Alleged Sexual Abuse
Austin police and the FBI are investigating multiple individuals associated with the youth academy of Major League Soccer club Austin FC for alleged sexual abuse. Sources, speaking to the Guardian anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, indicated that the inquiry primarily concerns alleged interactions among academy players. Several families connected to the academy have reported these allegations to Austin FC, according to an insider familiar with the situation.
Law Enforcement Confirms Inquiry
The Austin Police Department acknowledged the investigation to the Guardian on Thursday but stated it cannot disclose further details since it “involves a juvenile and is ongoing.” An FBI spokesperson commented that the agency “can neither confirm nor deny” the existence of an investigation, refraining from additional remarks. Officials from both MLS and Austin FC confirmed that they are cooperating with the Austin Police Department and the FBI in this ongoing matter.
Allegations Prompt Immediate Action
Austin FC Academy issued a statement indicating that they became aware of allegations related to youth-to-youth misconduct in December 2025. The statement outlined that upon receiving information from the concerned families, the academy took immediate measures to address the situation.
Cooperation with Authorities
The academy management reported the allegations to Major League Soccer, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and local law enforcement, launching an internal investigation in collaboration with the league. In light of the ongoing investigation, the academy has suspended “all activities” for the affected age group. A source close to the club revealed that the FBI had visited the training facility for inquiries.
Disciplinary Measures Taken, No Staff Accountability
According to announcements from MLS and Austin FC officials, several academy players faced disciplinary action due to the investigation; however, no academy staff members were sanctioned. The league and the club have been advised to pause their own proceedings until law enforcement completes its inquiries, although further action could occur if new information comes to light.
Commitment to Safety and Well-Being
Austin FC Academy reiterated its commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement during the investigation. In a statement to the Guardian, the academy emphasized, “Austin FC Academy and MLS have taken and will continue to take decisive action based on our unwavering commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of our youth players.”
League Prioritizes Player Welfare
Major League Soccer expressed its serious stance on player safety, stating that they approached the situation with a trauma-informed lens. The league is focused on prioritizing the well-being and privacy of the affected youth while ensuring collaboration with law enforcement and relevant authorities to mitigate any further risks.
Austin FC Academy Structure and Recent Leadership Changes
The Austin FC Academy encompasses five teams ranging from U-13 to U-18, consisting of approximately 100 players. The program operates independently with its own coaching staff and leadership, competing in MLS Next, a youth competition initiated in 2020. Like many MLS academies, Austin FC draws talent from across the nation and offers housing and educational services through a partnership with Florida-based SAI Academy.
In recent months, the senior athletic department of Austin FC has seen significant leadership transitions, with the club parting ways with head coach Nico Estevez and athletic director Rodolfo Borrell in May. Club officials clarified that these recent changes were unrelated to the ongoing allegations. Former Philadelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin has been selected to replace Estevez, with his tenure set to begin at the commencement of the 2027 Sprint season. Meanwhile, interim head coach Davey Arnaud’s team currently occupies the 14th position out of 15 in the Western Conference, trailing three points behind last-place Sporting Kansas City.
