Slumping Austin FC fires coach, sporting director before World Cup break

May 18, 2026 - 21:27

Austin FC made a major shakeup on Monday, firing head coach Nico Estevez and sporting director Rodolfo Borrell as the team struggles near the bottom of the MLS standings. The decision comes just one season after the club returned to the playoffs, making the current slide especially jarring for fans and front office alike.

The moves signal a reset for a team that has failed to build on its postseason appearance. Estevez took over as head coach in 2023, but the team's form has deteriorated sharply this year. Borrell, who joined the club in 2022, was responsible for shaping the roster and overall soccer strategy. With the MLS season pausing for the World Cup break, the timing gives Austin FC a chance to regroup and search for new leadership.

The club has not announced interim replacements, but the search for a new coach and sporting director is expected to begin immediately. Austin FC currently sits near the bottom of the Western Conference, with a record that has left supporters frustrated. The team will hope that these changes can spark a turnaround when the season resumes.