An independent review panel has determined that referee Tim Ford made a mistake during a recent match involving the Vancouver Whitecaps. The panel, which included officials from U.S. Soccer, Canada Soccer, and the Professional Referees’ Organization, announced on Tuesday that Ford incorrectly issued a second yellow card to Whitecaps defender Edier Ocampo during Saturday's game against the San Jose Earthquakes.

The second yellow card resulted in a red card, which would have suspended Ocampo for the next match. However, the review panel has rescinded the red card, allowing Ocampo to play in the upcoming game against Houston on Sunday. This match will also mark the debut of new teammate Thomas Muller.

Ocampo's expulsion significantly impacted the game, forcing the Whitecaps to compete with only ten players for a large portion of the match. The Earthquakes capitalized on this advantage, ultimately winning 2-1 with a goal in stoppage time, a result that was considered an upset.

The decision by Ford drew criticism from Whitecaps players and fans alike. Injured players Sam Adekugbe and Ryan Gauld expressed their frustration on social media, while Ocampo and others on the field voiced their displeasure during the match.

In addition to the rescinded red card, Ocampo was fined by Major League Soccer for "failing to leave the field in a timely manner" after his ejection. This fine has drawn attention, especially since the red card has now been annulled.

Ford faced scrutiny for several calls during the match, including the yellow card issued to Ocampo and a penalty kick awarded to San Jose. Although the video assistant referee suggested a review of the penalty decision, Ford upheld his original call after watching the replay.

Following the match, social media activity revealed posts by Ford's wife showing the family attending LAFC games. The Professional Referees’ Organization stated that they found no inappropriate conduct in these posts but are reviewing their policies regarding referees' connections to local teams to address potential ethical concerns.

This incident is not the first time Ford has been at the center of controversy involving the Whitecaps. He officiated the team's final playoff game in 2023, where former head coach Vanni Sartini publicly criticized him for a controversial penalty decision. Sartini was shown a red card after expressing his frustration, and he later made a joking remark about Ford that was not well received by many, including team and league officials. Sartini was dismissed as head coach at the end of 2024 and later apologized for his comments.