Portland Thorns and Timbers owner Merritt Paulson has announced he is stepping down as CEO of both clubs amid the continuing fallout from the Yates investigation.
Paulson hinted at potentially selling the two teams but did not elaborate as pressure continues to grow on the under-fire owner.
The Yates investigation showed the Thorns organization actually helped Paul Riley obtain another job in the NWSL, despite having been fired after a Thorns investigation into sexual misconduct.
The report also showed that under Paulson’s watch, president of business Mike Golub — who has since been fired along with president of soccer Gavin Wilkinson — created “an atmosphere of disrespect and intimidation towards women and working mothers employed at the club over a span of 11 years.”
Though Golub and Wilkinson are gone, fans in Portland have continued to demand Paulson sell the team. The owner released a statement on Tuesday that hinted he may be heading in that direction, while also stepping down as CEO of the NWSL and MLS clubs.
“The Portland Thorns were created to be a beacon of what is possible in women’s sports. A successful team is built on trust, equality and accountability, and today I am holding myself accountable for not doing enough,” Paulson said.
Hinting at a possible sale, he added: “Looking ahead, our organization is at a crossroads, and the future is not necessarily a clear path. No matter what happens, ensuring the long-term health and success of the Portland Thorns is critical to me, as I know it is for our players and the community.
“Given the complexities involved on several levels, finalizing the correct path forward will take time. I love this organization as if it was part of my family, and to me, what is most important is getting it right.”
As fans ponder a boycott of the Thorns’ upcoming playoff game, the team’s star Sophia Smith has urged them to continue showing up at Providence Park.
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