Hansen said he felt “disrespected” after Real Salt Lake players chose not to play Wednesday’s game. He was later accused of making racist comments in a report from The Athletic.

Dell Loy Hansen, owner of Utah soccer clubs Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals FC and Real Monarchs, is taking a leave of absence as the MLS, NWSL and USL launch and investigation into allegations of racist comments during his ownership tenure.

“As MLS and NWSL commence their investigations, Utah Soccer will ensure full cooperation, including seeking to answer any questions the leagues may have about the statements made by Mr. Hansen regarding athlete boycotts and allegations in a resulting article,” the statement read. “As an organization, our priority is our employees, our teams, our players, and our fans, and Mr. Hansen in particular cares deeply for each of these individuals who works so hard to make Utah Soccer the success