The Independent Panel, consisting of one representative each from the U.S. Soccer Federation and Canadian Soccer Association, as well as a representative nominated by the Professional Referee Organization, has denied the Colorado Rapids appeal of the red card issued to defender Tommy Smith for abusive language and/or gestures in Colorado's match against Minnesota United on Oct. 13.
As a result, Smith will serve his red-card suspension in Colorado's next match on Oct. 21 at the San Jose Earthquakes.
The Independent Panel has also denied the Vancouver Whitecaps appeals of the red card issued to forward Kei Kamara for violent conduct in Vancouver's match against Sporting Kansas City on Oct. 17.
As a result, Kamara will serve his red-card suspension in Vancouver's next match on Oct. 21 against LAFC.
Each club is entitled to two unsuccessful appeals per season, including the playoffs. Since the appeals made by Colorado and Vancouver were unsuccessful, each team has one remaining unsuccessful appeal for any future dismissals in the 2018 season (including the playoffs).
