DOJ Reviews Removal of 20 Thorns Fans

The Justice Department is reviewing a confrontation at Providence Park during Friday’s Portland Thorns–North Carolina Courage match, where about 20 spectators revealed XX-XY Athletics shirts and displayed a “Save Women’s Sports” banner. Video and witness accounts described some spectators being struck with transgender-flag poles and then escorted from the stands by security. The department said the reported conduct may raise viewpoint-discrimination and First Amendment concerns, while emphasizing that it is still reviewing the facts and law. Portland police said two potential offenses—alleged harassment and vandalism—were reported; police said off-duty officers did not remove the spectators and that no injuries, arrests or citations were reported. The investigation is ongoing.