After one month, the MLS referee lockout is over.
The Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) has signed a new Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) that will run through January 2031.
MLS referees will return to the job this weekend, following the use of replacement officials for the 2024 season’s first month.
“We thank the hundreds of officials in the U.S. and Canada who stood in solidarity with us showing their strength and professionalism,” the referees union PSRA said in a statement on Tuesday.
“Standing strong with each other, we have been buoyed by the support of players, fans, supporters clubs and other unionized workgroups during our employer-imposed lockout. Together, we have won much-needed improvements while demonstrating the value of having the best referees in Major League Soccer on the pitch.”
According to The Athletic, the PSRA was able to obtain significant pay increases for referees, assistant referees and video assistant referees.
“We look forward to welcoming our senior match officials back this upcoming match round. It has been a difficult time for everyone as we worked to reach an agreement,” said Mark Geiger, PRO’s general manager.
“This seven-year term provides enhanced pay and benefits for all officials and the stability that will support the growth of the professional game in the United States and Canada.
“On behalf of PRO, I would like to thank the PSRA negotiating team and the federal mediator for their commitment to finding a mutually agreeable conclusion to these negotiations and their hard work in finalizing the terms.”
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