The Digest:
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been suspended for skipping the 2025 MLS All-Star Game. This follows a policy that prohibits players from participating in their club's next match if they miss the event. Messi will miss Miami's game against FC Cincinnati.
Key Points:
- Messi’s suspension is a result of missing the All-Star Game on July 23, 2025.
- MLS policy mandates that players who skip the All-Star Game cannot play in their club’s next match, except in cases of injury.
- Messi had previously been praised for his contribution to MLS, but now faces this penalty.
- MLS Commissioner Don Garber expressed understanding but emphasized the necessity of enforcing the rule.
- The suspension applies to Miami’s home match against FC Cincinnati on July 27, 2025.
- Garber hinted that the rule may be reviewed in the future to accommodate players’ commitments.
MLS’s decision highlights the league’s commitment to its longstanding policies. However, it raises questions about striking a balance between player welfare and competition rules. Messi's suspension may prompt a re-evaluation of the All-Star Game participation policy in the future.
Sources: Soccernet.ng, MLS, Inter Miami News
