Mexico coach fired for ‘beating’ reporter

Miguel Herrera, Mexico’s national soccer team coach, was fired on Tuesday, a day after he allegedly punched a reporter who had criticized his team’s performance in the recent Copa America and Gold Cup tournaments.

“After evaluating the situation and listening to everyone that makes up this family, I’ve made the decision to remove Miguel Herrera from his post,” Decio de Maria, president of the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), told a news conference.

“As far as what Miguel and I discussed, the only thing I can say is that it was very tough for Miguel,” he said.

Christian Martinoli, a sports reporter for Mexico’s TV Azteca, said on Monday that Herrera threatened him then hit him in the neck at Philadelphia’s airport as the Mexican team were heading home after a 3-1 victory against Jamaica which saw them win the CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament.

De Maria said Herrera had apologised about the airport incident, but speaking on local radio, he added: “You can’t respond to aggression with aggression.”

A new coach would be named before September, de Maria said.