spectator ejected from Major League Soccer match due to wearing MAGA cap
In a recent incident that's causing quite a stir, Michael Weitzel, a season-ticket holder, was escorted out of a St. Louis City SC game last week. The reason for his removal was wearing a Trump MAGA hat.
The security guard in the viral video appears empathetic while escorting Michael out, seemingly aware that the display of political symbols can be a sensitive issue. However, the incident has raised questions about the application of rules and fairness within Major League Soccer (MLS).
The MLS Fan Code of Conduct handbook, which is used to maintain order and ensure a safe environment at games, prohibits the display of signs, symbols, images, language, or gestures that are political in nature. This policy is enforced to remove or ban items (and sometimes patrons) displaying political messages or campaign-related apparel such as MAGA hats or protest banners.
The security guard in the video states that pride flags are pre-approved, but they are still considered political in 2025. Enforcement of this policy can vary, with some groups displaying "ABOLISH ICE" banners without immediate action, while other fans have been asked to remove banners, had apparel confiscated, been ejected, or banned for violations.
Stadiums' individual Fan Codes of Conduct require patrons to remove, store, or leave if they refuse to remove political apparel or symbols; refusals have led to ejections and, in at least one high-profile incident, an escort out of the venue.
It's important for fans to be aware of these rules and avoid wearing overtly political hats, shirts, or displaying banners/flags that clearly endorse or oppose candidates, parties, legislation, or government actions while inside MLS stadiums. If asked by staff to remove or cover political items, compliance is necessary to avoid ejection or further sanctions, as policies and enforcement can differ by club and stadium.
The MLS Fan Code of Conduct handbook is part of the rules for stadiums and facilities controlled by the St. Louis City SC and MLS. The league leadership has defended the rule as intended to avoid incitement and keep matches safe. However, the incident involving Michael Weitzel's removal from the St. Louis City SC game is still gaining traction on social media, with some questioning the fairness of the application of the rules.
- The MLS Fan Code of Conduct prohibits the display of political symbols or messages, such as the Trump MAGA hat worn by Michael Weitzel, which led to his removal from a St. Louis City SC game.
- Interestingly, while the security guard in a viral video appeared empathetic during Weitzel's removal, some question the application of rules and fairness within MLS, citing examples where political banners, like those calling for the abolition of ICE, have not been immediately acted upon.
- Fans attending MLS games should be aware that political apparel or symbols, including those associated with sports like football, could potentially violate stadium rules and lead to ejections or bans, as enforcement can vary by club and stadium.
