Messi and Alba Suspended for Missing MLS All-Star Game
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, stars for Inter Miami, have been suspended for one match by Major League Soccer (MLS) for failing to participate in the MLS All-Star Game. The announcement came on Friday, July 25, 2025, rendering them ineligible for Inter Miami's upcoming match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Reasoning Behind the Suspension
The suspensions stem from their absence from the MLS All-Star Game against Liga MX All-Stars on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. MLS regulations mandate that all players selected for the All-Star Game must participate unless they receive prior approval from the league or provide evidence of a valid injury. The league has a zero-tolerance policy for unexcused absences.
Inter Miami's Perspective: Fatigue and Injury Concerns
Inter Miami's camp argued that the decision for Messi and Alba to skip the All-Star Game was driven by concerns over player fatigue and injury management. Coach Javier Mascherano and owner Jorge Mas cited Messi's demanding schedule, which included nine games in 35 days, featuring four FIFA Club World Cup matches. Alba was reportedly managing a prior injury as well. The club decided it was in the players’ best long-term interest to rest.
MLS Commissioner's Statement: A "Very Difficult Decision"
MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the complexity of the situation, calling the decision to enforce the suspension "very difficult." He highlighted Messi's immense contribution to the league and Inter Miami's particularly packed schedule, while also emphasizing the importance of upholding league rules. Garber also said the league would "take a hard look at the policy moving forward" and work with players to "determine how the rule should evolve."
Inter Miami Owner Slams Suspension as "Draconian"
Jorge Mas, Inter Miami's co-owner, strongly criticized the league's decision, labeling the suspension as "draconian." He revealed that both Messi and Alba were "very upset" by the ruling. Mas underscored the club's rationale for prioritizing the players' long-term health and voiced his hope that the incident wouldn't negatively affect Messi's perception of the league. He also stated the rule puts the players in an "untenable position to have to choose between participating in an All-Star festivity, which is an exhibition match, or choosing a regular-season game that I think matters."
Key Dates in the Controversy
Here's a timeline of the critical events:
- Wednesday, July 23, 2025: MLS All-Star Game (MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars) – Messi and Alba absent.
- Friday, July 25, 2025: MLS officially announces the one-match suspensions for Messi and Alba.
- Saturday, July 26, 2025: Inter Miami's match against FC Cincinnati, in which Messi and Alba are suspended.
Stakeholders Impacted by the Suspension
Several stakeholders are affected by this controversial decision:
- MLS (Major League Soccer): The league is tasked with upholding its rules while managing the impact of suspending its biggest star.
- Lionel Messi & Jordi Alba: The players are directly impacted, missing a crucial match due to the suspension.
- Inter Miami CF: The club strongly disagrees with the suspension, citing player welfare and a demanding schedule.
- MLS All-Star Game: The event’s prestige and relevance are now under scrutiny.
- Fans, Partners, Sponsors: They face potential disappointment due to Messi's absence, affecting ticket sales, viewership, and marketing opportunities.
Key Statements from Involved Parties
Several key figures have provided statements regarding the suspensions:
- MLS Statement: "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."
- Don Garber (MLS Commissioner): "I know Lionel Messi loves this league. I don't think there's a player -- or anyone -- who has done more for Major League Soccer than Messi. I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision. Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game, and we had to enforce it. It was a very difficult decision." He also stated Messi has played nine games in 35 days.
- Jorge Mas (Inter Miami Co-owner): Described the suspension as "draconian" and said Messi was "very upset." He added, "I believe it's a bad rule, but it's a rule nonetheless. And it's a bad rule because I think it puts the players in an untenable position to have to choose between participating in an All-Star festivity, which is an exhibition match, or choosing a regular-season game that I think matters."
Controversy and Public Reaction
The core of the controversy revolves around the conflict between a rigid league rule and the unprecedented circumstances surrounding Lionel Messi's arrival in MLS, which has included an exceptionally demanding schedule. The timing of the players' notification of withdrawal (the day of the game) also sparked criticism.
Public reaction has been mixed. Some fans and commentators have criticized MLS for penalizing its biggest star, arguing that it harms the league's appeal and punishes fans who purchased tickets to see Messi. Others support the league's adherence to its rules, regardless of the player's status.
Potential Consequences of the Suspensions
The suspensions carry several potential consequences:
- Missed Match: Messi and Alba will be absent from Inter Miami's crucial league match against FC Cincinnati.
- Reputational Impact for MLS: The incident could strain relationships between the league and its star players, potentially discouraging other international stars from joining MLS.
- Rule Review: MLS Commissioner Don Garber has indicated a review of the All-Star Game participation policy.
- Impact on Messi's Contract: Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas expressed concern that the suspension could negatively impact Messi's perception of the league and ongoing contract extension talks.
