Is Lionel Messi Upset with MLS Over Harsh One-Game Ban?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Inter Miami's co-owner Jorge Mas has revealed Lionel Messi's deep frustration following a one-game ban for skipping the MLS All-Star game. This controversial penalty, deemed 'draconian' by Mas, raises questions about the league’s regulations and the implications for Messi's participation in a crucial match against FC Cincinnati.
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi is facing a one-game ban from MLS.
- The penalty has been termed draconian by Inter Miami's co-owner.
- Messi and Jordi Alba will miss a crucial game against FC Cincinnati.
- Inter Miami is currently fifth in the Eastern Conference.
- The situation raises questions about the fairness of league regulations.
New Delhi, July 26 (NationPress) Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has disclosed that Lionel Messi is ‘very upset’ after receiving a one-game suspension for opting out of the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star game, a penalty that he considers ‘draconian.’
Messi and Jordi Alba will be absent from the match against MLS Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati this Sunday (IST), as MLS regulations dictate that any player who fails to attend the All-Star Game without prior league approval is barred from participating in their club's subsequent match.
"Lionel Messi is very upset, as are all of us in the club, regarding the fact that they will not be able to play tomorrow night. However, what we need to do as a club is unite as one, adopting an attitude that it’s us against the world," Mas stated during a press briefing.
Mas also confirmed that the decision to rest the two players was taken by the club, given that they had participated in nine games over just 36 days amidst a packed schedule involving Concacaf Champions League, MLS regular season, and FIFA Club World Cup responsibilities.
"I believe that the punishment for this rule is frankly draconian. Clearly, the reaction from Messi and Alba was not positive. They are eager to compete and play, which is their primary goal. They recognize the significance of tomorrow's match.
"Their response was exactly what one would expect from two competitive athletes who cannot comprehend the rationale behind a suspension resulting from missing an exhibition match,” he added.
Currently, Inter Miami ranks fifth in the Eastern Conference, trailing the leaders Cincinnati by seven points, elevating the stakes for their upcoming encounter on Sunday (IST).
Point of View
The situation surrounding Lionel Messi and his recent ban from MLS raises significant questions about the fairness and rationale of league rules. While maintaining a competitive spirit is essential, the enforcement of such strict penalties may need to be reevaluated to ensure that star players are not unduly penalized for decisions made in the interest of their health and well-being.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Lionel Messi upset with MLS?
Lionel Messi is upset due to a one-game ban imposed by MLS for missing the All-Star game, which he and his team believe is an excessive punishment.
What led to Messi's suspension?
Messi's suspension resulted from MLS rules that penalize players who do not attend the All-Star game without prior league approval.
How has Jorge Mas reacted to Messi's suspension?
Jorge Mas has expressed that Messi is very upset about the ban and considers it to be draconian in nature.
What match will Messi miss due to the ban?
Messi will miss the upcoming match against FC Cincinnati due to the suspension.
Where does Inter Miami currently stand in the league?
Inter Miami is currently in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, trailing FC Cincinnati by seven points.
