Soccer-MLS season may start with replacement refs amid labor dispute

The Professional Referee Organization said on Saturday it has decided to lock out Major League Soccer referees ahead of next week's start to the 2024 season after the Professional Soccer Referees Association rejected a proposed new labor pact.

The PRO will lock out referees effective 12:00 am. ET (0500 GMT) on Sunday and, barring a change, the 2024 MLS season opener on Wednesday featuring Argentine great Lionel Messi's Inter Miami club will be officiated by replacement referees.