Washington Spirit CEO quits in the wake of NWSL abuse scandal

Washington DC - Washington Spirit chief executive Steve Baldwin quit his post on Tuesday, marking the latest in a string of resignations in the US National Women's Soccer League after a huge sex abuse scandal broke.

Washington Spirit CEO Steve Baldwin quit his post after coming under pressure for the way allegations about former coach Richie Burke were handled.
Washington Spirit CEO Steve Baldwin quit his post after coming under pressure for the way allegations about former coach Richie Burke were handled.  © IMAGO / Icon SMI

Baldwin resigned as CEO and managing partner of the club with immediate effect, according to a statement shared by the club.

The players themselves were not satisfied with the resignation. In a joint letter published on US national team player Andi Sullivan's Twitter account, they called for his shares to be sold to co-owner Y Michele Kang.

"You still have a firm grip as majority owner on the decisions that need to be made at the club even if they are made from behind a veil," they wrote.

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The players also said they had no confidence in Ben Olsen, who Baldwin appointed as his successor.

Coach Richie Burke lost his post at Spirit the previous week after allegations about his behavior with players were made public.

The entire league has been in turmoil since allegations against North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley emerged. Riley was fired over allegations he sexually abused two female players, as reported by The Athletic.

It was later revealed the NWSL had ignored the evidence and swept the situation under the rug. League president Lisa Baird resigned.

In August, Christy Holly was fired as coach at Racing Louisville after players complained of a toxic environment.

A new NWSL governing body and an independent investigation are expected to clarify the allegations and stabilize the league.

Cover photo: IMAGO / Icon SMI

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