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Apr 3, 2025 4:52 pm
Global Media Network
Austin FC Academy Investigation Expands After Allegations
An investigation involving the Austin FC youth academy is continuing after allegations of misconduct involving academy players were reported to authorities. Local police are leading the case, while federal officials are also involved in reviewing the matter.
The investigation focuses on reported incidents involving youth players within the club's academy system. Officials have not released many details because the case involves minors and remains active.
The Austin Police Department confirmed that an investigation is underway. However, the department said it cannot provide more information while the case remains open. Authorities explained that protecting the privacy of young people is an important part of the process.
A spokesperson for the Federal Bureau of Investigation declined to comment on the matter. The agency did not confirm or deny its involvement in the investigation.
Austin FC Academy said it first learned about the allegations in December 2025 after several academy families raised concerns. According to the club, officials acted quickly after receiving the reports.
The academy said it immediately informed Major League Soccer, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and local law enforcement. Club officials also launched an internal review while working with the league.
As part of its response, the academy suspended all activities for the age group connected to the reported allegations. The temporary suspension was introduced while the matter was being reviewed.
The club said it continues to cooperate fully with law enforcement. Academy leaders stated that protecting the health, safety, and well-being of young players remains their highest priority throughout the investigation.
League officials also released a statement about the case. Major League Soccer said player safety is one of its most important responsibilities and that it has worked closely with Austin FC since the allegations became known.
The league said it has followed a trauma-informed approach during the process. Officials explained that protecting the privacy of the young people involved and reducing the risk of further harm remain key goals while the investigation continues.
Sources familiar with the situation said several academy players have already faced disciplinary action as part of the club's and league's internal review. However, no academy staff members have reportedly been disciplined.
Those same sources said both the club and the league have paused additional internal action while law enforcement completes its investigation. Officials said more steps could be considered later if new information becomes available.
A source familiar with the matter also said federal investigators have visited the club's training facility to conduct interviews as part of the ongoing review. Authorities have not publicly discussed the purpose or outcome of those interviews.
Austin FC's academy includes teams from the Under-13 through Under-18 age groups. More than 100 young players take part in the development program.
The academy operates with its own leadership and coaching staff, separate from Austin FC's senior team. The teams compete in MLS Next, the national youth competition created by Major League Soccer to develop young talent across the United States.
Like many professional academies, Austin FC recruits players from different parts of the country. The club offers housing support for players who move from outside the local area. Many academy players also receive education through an academic program that works with several MLS youth systems.
The investigation comes during a period of change for Austin FC's senior football operations. Earlier this year, the club announced leadership changes involving its head coach and sporting director.
Club officials have stated that those management changes are not connected to the academy investigation.
Austin FC later appointed former Philadelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin as the club's next permanent manager. Until then, interim head coach Davy Arnaud continues to lead the first team.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not announced any criminal charges. Law enforcement officials continue to review the reported allegations while the club and Major League Soccer cooperate with the ongoing process. Both organizations have emphasized that protecting young athletes and supporting a safe environment will remain their priority as the investigation moves forward.
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