Messi and Alba Handed One-Game Ban for All-Star Game Absence
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been suspended for one match by Major League Soccer (MLS) after withdrawing from the All-Star Game in Austin, Texas, just hours before kickoff on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. The decision has sparked controversy, raising questions about player welfare, league rules, and the importance of the All-Star showcase.
MLS Enforces All-Star Participation Policy
The league officially announced the suspensions on Friday, July 25, citing its policy that mandates participation in the All-Star Game unless prior approval is obtained. The MLS statement reads, "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."
Inter Miami Reacts to the Suspension
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano acknowledged Messi’s fatigue, stating, "Messi showed normal fatigue from the number of games and minutes he's been playing." He added, "We've been playing practically every three days. It's not enough rest for the players." Mascherano also mentioned he hadn't been officially notified of the sanctions earlier in the day.
Owner Jorge Mas Criticizes "Draconian" Rule
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas publicly expressed his displeasure with the league's decision, calling the rule "draconian." He stated that Messi was "extremely upset" by the suspension. Mas emphasized that the club made the decision to rest the players due to their demanding schedule and concerns for their long-term health. He also voiced hope that this incident won't affect Messi's potential contract renewal.
Commissioner Garber Acknowledges Fatigue, Defends Policy
MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the fatigue factor for Messi but defended the league's decision to enforce its policy. "Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game, and we had to enforce it," Garber stated. However, he also committed to a review of the existing All-Star Game policy, indicating a willingness to work with players on how the rule should evolve. He said the league would "take a hard look at the policy moving forward."
Key Dates and Events Leading to the Suspension
The timeline of events leading to the suspension is as follows:
- July 23, 2025: Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba withdraw from the MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas.
- July 25, 2025: MLS announces the one-game ban for Messi and Alba.
- July 26, 2025: Inter Miami's next MLS match against FC Cincinnati, which Messi and Alba will miss due to the suspension.
Impact on Inter Miami and the League
The suspension means Inter Miami will be without two of their key players for a crucial match against Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati. In their last encounter, FC Cincinnati defeated Inter Miami 3-0. Coach Pat Noonan indicated they were preparing as if Messi and Alba would be suspended. Messi has scored 18 goals and has 10 assists in 17 league matches this season (as of July 25, 2025), in addition to playing in other competitions.
Balancing Player Welfare and League Promotion
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between player welfare and the league's desire to promote its marquee events. Inter Miami's demanding schedule, including recent participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, has been cited by the club as a primary reason for the players' absence. Some believe the league acted correctly in enforcing its rules. Others criticize the MLS for being inflexible, particularly given Messi's age (38) and the demanding schedule.
Potential Changes to All-Star Game Policy
Commissioner Garber's commitment to review the policy suggests potential changes to the All-Star Game format, scheduling, and player participation rules in the future. The current situation has strained trust with fans and potentially tarnished the perception of the midsummer event.
