Sounders coach Sigi Schmid fined, suspended one game for Wednesday's comments

Sounders head coach Sigi Schmid was suspended for one game and fined $2,000 by MLS Commissioner Don Garber on Friday following comments Schmid made about referee Ricardo Salazar during Wednesday's 0-0 draw to Real Salt Lake.

Schmid referred to Salazar as Real Salt Lake's "12th man" during a halftime interview and had even more to say about the referee during the post-game interview.

"The thing is, our fans know his name," he said. "I don't think many fans know the name of the referee. I think that's an indication."

As Sounder at Heart reported, Garber said in a press release that, "Sigi Schmid's comments earlier this week about the officiating were unacceptable. MLS requires that its players, coaches, and club leadership maintain proper respect for the officials at all times."

The last time Schmid wasn't seen on the Sounders sideline was in 2009 to attend his son's wedding. Assistant coach Brian Schmetzer filled in and it is likely that he will lead the Sounders at their next game on Sunday against FC Dallas.