Investigation Underway
The Austin FC Academy, the youth development arm of Major League Soccer’s Austin FC, is currently at the center of a disturbing investigation. Allegations of sexual abuse within the club’s youth system have prompted a joint probe by the Austin Police Department and the FBI. The claims surfaced in December 2025, when staff learned of inappropriate conduct involving several players.
Upon receiving the reports, the academy immediately reported the matter to the US Center for SafeSport and to Major League Soccer, while also contacting law enforcement. An internal review was launched, resulting in the suspension and expulsion of the players implicated. Police have confirmed the existence of an ongoing investigation, and federal agents have been seen interviewing witnesses at the club’s facilities.
Safeguarding Response
In the wake of the scandal, the club emphasized its commitment to player safety, noting that it has adopted the SafeSport framework and increased staff training. MLS officials have pledged to review its own policies to ensure that similar incidents can be identified and addressed more swiftly in the future.
The academy’s structure includes five competitive teams that compete in the MLS Next league, a platform designed to develop elite youth talent. The incident has raised questions about safeguarding protocols across the league and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms when abuse allegations arise.