L.A. Galaxy part ways with Katai after wife's racist posts

The Los Angeles Galaxy have cut ties with midfielder Aleksandar Katai in the wake of his wife's social media controversy. Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

L.A. Galaxy part ways with Aleksandar Katai after wife's racist posts

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 6/5/20

On Friday, Major League Soccer club L.A. Galaxy announced it and midfielder Aleksandar Katai have "mutually agreed to part ways."

Earlier in the week, Tea Katai, the player's wife, posted hate-filled messages on her Instagram story that included threats against people protesting the death of George Floyd.

Through a club statement, the Galaxy condemned those comments and explained the club was meeting with Katai on Thursday:

"Earlier today, the L.A. Galaxy were made aware of a series of racist and violent social media posts by Tea Katai, the wife of L.A. Galaxy midfielder Aleksandar Katai. The L.A. Galaxy strongly condemned the social posts and requested their immediate removal. The L.A. Galaxy stands firmly against racism of any kind, including that which suggests violence or seeks to demean the efforts of those in pursuit of racial equality.

"The L.A. Galaxy stand with communities of color, and especially the Black community, in the protests and fight against systemic racism, social inequality, bigotry and violence. The L.A. Galaxy will hold a meeting with Katai on Thursday, June 4 and will determine next steps

"Now is the time to reflect on our role in helping fight racism in our community."

According to Kevin Baxter of The Los Angeles Times, the Galaxy and Katai came to a financial agreement that takes the club off the hook for the remainder of his contract.

Per Corner of the Galaxy, the club had one buyout available for 2020 before Friday's decision.

Katai, who has featured for the Serbian National Team, apologized for his wife's post via Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aleksandar Katai (@aleksandarkatai) on Jun 3, 2020 at 7:59pm PDT

"The posts made by my wife, Tea Katai, on her social media platforms were unacceptable. These views are not ones that I share and are not tolerated in my family.

"Racism, particularly toward the black community, is not only prevalent in the United States and Europe, but across the globe. I strongly condemn white supremacy, racism, and violence toward people of color. Black lives matter.

"This is a mistake from my family and I take full responsibility. I will ensure that my family and I take the necessary actions to learn, understand, listen and support the black community. I understand that it will take time to earn back the support of the people of Los Angeles. I am committed to putting in the necessary work to learn from these mistakes and be a better ally and advocate for equality going forward.

"I am sorry for the pain these posts have caused the LA Galaxy family and all allies in the fight against racism.”

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