Disciplinary Actions: Fines Handed to Joel Waterman and Derrick Etienne Jr. After Heated CF Montréal vs. Toronto FC Clash
The latest installment of the Canadian Classique between CF Montréal and Toronto FC brought its fair share of tension—and now, disciplinary consequences.
Following Matchday 14 of the 2025 MLS season, the league’s Disciplinary Committee has announced fines for players from both sides stemming from separate incidents during their match on May 17.
Joel Waterman Fined for Delay
CF Montréal defender Joel Waterman has been fined for failing to leave the field in a timely manner after receiving a red card in the 21st minute of Saturday’s match. While specifics about the delay weren’t disclosed, league rules require that players exit the field promptly after being ejected to prevent disruptions or escalation. The Disciplinary Committee determined Waterman’s actions warranted supplemental discipline in the form of an undisclosed fine.
Waterman’s ejection left Montréal shorthanded early in the rivalry match, a blow that had both tactical and emotional consequences. CF Montréal would go on to struggle for control throughout the remainder of the game, underscoring the impact of the incident.
Etienne Jr. Disciplined for Gesture
Toronto FC midfielder Derrick Etienne Jr. was also sanctioned, receiving a fine for what the league deemed “an inappropriate gesture” made in the 84th minute of the same match. The nature of the gesture wasn’t detailed, but the MLS Disciplinary Committee cited a violation of the league’s behavioral standards.
Etienne’s actions occurred during a high-emotion moment late in the game, and while they did not result in a card at the time, the committee’s review led to a post-match punishment. Such gestures, even if not caught in the moment, are subject to retroactive review under MLS’s conduct policy.
No Suspensions Announced
Neither Waterman nor Etienne Jr. received suspensions, meaning both will be available for selection in their respective teams’ upcoming fixtures—pending coach decisions. However, the fines serve as a reminder that conduct on and off the field continues to be closely monitored, especially during high-stakes matches like this cross-Canada rivalry.
The Bigger Picture
These decisions follow a spirited and often contentious encounter between two long-time rivals. With playoff positioning beginning to take shape, every match carries greater importance, and emotions can run high. Still, the league continues to stress professionalism and adherence to its code of conduct, particularly in nationally televised or rivalry games.
The rivalry between CF Montréal and Toronto FC remains one of MLS’s most heated and closely watched, and this latest chapter has once again provided both drama and discipline.
