Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer (MLS) following an incident involving Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw on August 19. The league’s Disciplinary Committee determined that Messi violated its policy regarding contact with an opponent’s face, head or neck.
The incident occurred during second-half stoppage time, when Messi and Sullivan exchanged words before the Argentine made contact with the back of the young player’s neck. The referee did not punish Messi during the match, but the incident was later reviewed by the MLS disciplinary authorities.
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The amount of Messi’s fine was not disclosed, and importantly, the Argentine star did not receive a suspension, meaning he remains available for Inter Miami’s upcoming match.
Inter Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined for a separate incident involving contact with an opponent’s head or neck during the same match. Meanwhile, Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan had his red card from the game overturned after an independent review.
Will Messi miss Inter Miami’s next game?
No. The MLS punishment is financial, so Messi will be eligible to play despite the controversy.
