Inter Miami Blasts MLS for Messi Suspension
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas has publicly criticized Major League Soccer (MLS) for what he calls a "draconian" one-game suspension levied against Lionel Messi and teammate Jordi Alba. The suspension, announced on July 25, 2025, stems from their absence from the MLS All-Star Game held in Austin, Texas, on July 23, 2025, where the MLS All-Stars played against Mexico's Liga MX.
Messi and Alba Sit Out All-Star Game
Despite being selected for the All-Star Game, neither Messi nor Alba participated. Inter Miami informed league officials of their absence on the day of the game. The club cited fatigue for Messi, stemming from a demanding schedule, and a previous injury for Alba as the reasons for their absence.
MLS Enforces Suspension
On July 25, 2025, MLS officially announced the one-game suspensions for both players. This renders them ineligible for Inter Miami's crucial match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Inter Miami Owner Deems Suspension "Draconian"
Jorge Mas, owner of Inter Miami, didn't hold back in his criticism of the league's decision. He characterized the suspension as "draconian" and revealed that Messi was "extremely upset" by the ruling. Mas stated that the club made the decision for both players to sit out the All-Star Game to prioritize their fitness amidst a packed schedule, which includes not only MLS matches but also four FIFA Club World Cup matches.
MLS Commissioner Acknowledges Difficult Decision
MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the difficulty of enforcing the suspension. He expressed understanding of Messi's commitment to Inter Miami and the strain of his demanding schedule, which includes nine games in 35 days. Garber also stated the league would re-evaluate the policy regarding All-Star Game participation, saying they would "take a hard look at the policy moving forward" and work with players to "determine how the rule should evolve."
The Rule Behind the Ruling
The MLS's decision is rooted in its long-standing policy that mandates players selected for the All-Star Game must participate. Exceptions are made for players with prior approval from the league or a valid reason for absence, such as injury. The MLS stated, "Per league rules, any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without prior approval from the league is ineligible to compete in their club's next match."
Stakeholders Weigh In
Several key stakeholders are directly impacted by this controversy:
- Inter Miami CF: The club at the center of the issue, with its star players suspended.
- Jorge Mas: The owner of Inter Miami, who has vocally opposed the MLS decision.
- Lionel Messi & Jordi Alba: The players directly affected by the suspension, reportedly upset by the decision.
- Major League Soccer (MLS): The league that enforced the suspension based on its existing policy.
- Don Garber: The MLS Commissioner, representing the league's stance and promising a review of the policy.
- Javier Mascherano: Inter Miami Coach, who had indicated his preference for the players to rest.
Controversy and Public Reaction
The core of the controversy lies in the application of a potentially rigid rule to Lionel Messi, a player whose arrival in MLS was intended to elevate the league's global profile. The question arises whether the existing rule adequately considers player welfare, particularly given Messi's demanding schedule.
The situation has triggered widespread debate among fans and media. Some view it as necessary enforcement of rules, while others criticize it as a misstep that harms the league's image and potentially alienates its star player. Mas indicated that Messi himself is "extremely upset" by the suspension.
Potential Consequences of the Suspension
The fallout from this controversy could have several significant consequences:
- Impact on Inter Miami's Performance: Messi and Alba will miss a crucial match against FC Cincinnati, the Eastern Conference leaders, potentially impacting Inter Miami's standings.
- Review of MLS Policy: Commissioner Garber's statement indicates the league will "take a hard look" at the All-Star Game participation policy, suggesting potential changes in the future to address player workload and club needs.
- Messi's Perception of MLS: Jorge Mas raised concerns about the long-term impact on Messi's perception of the league and its rules. This could influence future contract negotiations, especially as Messi's current contract expires at the end of 2025.
- Precedent: The enforcement of this rule on such high-profile players sets a clear precedent for other MLS players regarding All-Star Game participation.
