The Inevitable

L.A. Galaxy Relieve Steve Sampson of Head Coaching Duties

CARSON, Calif. -- Los Angeles Galaxy President and General Manager Alexi Lalas announced today that the club has relieved Steve Sampson of his duties as head coach, effective immediately.

"Steve Sampson has worked tirelessly for this organization, but our 2006 campaign has yet to live up to the high standards that Galaxy fans have come to know and expect from their team," said Lalas. "The Galaxy is the jewel of MLS, but with that distinction comes a responsibility to continuously set the bar, on and off the field. I want to thank Coach Sampson for all he has done for the Galaxy including winning an MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup championship, and I wish him only the best as he continues his coaching career."

Sampson became the fourth coach in team history, succeeding Sigi Schmid on August 18, 2004. The 48-year-old Sampson finished with a regular season record of 17-24-10 (.431) and a playoff record of 4-2-1 (.643), which included a 2005 MLS Cup Championship and 2005 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Championship.

"It has been an honor to be the head coach of the Los Angeles Galaxy for the last two years. It was truly a privilege to bring two championships to the fans of Los Angeles," said Sampson. "I would like to thank AEG and the entire Galaxy organization, from the front office, to the coaches, to the players for all of their support and hard work. I truly enjoyed my time here and wish everyone all the best in the future."

The L.A. Galaxy sit at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 2-8-1 record (7 points) and three points behind Chivas USA. The Galaxy is in the midst of a six-game losing streak dating back to April 29th and has yet to win a 2006 home game.