Archive · 26 Jul 2025
Messi and Alba Suspended for Missing MLS All-Star Game
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were suspended for one game in the MLS because they didn't play in the All-Star game.
The league has a rule that players have to play in the All-Star game unless they get permission not to.
Messi and Alba's team, Inter Miami, decided they needed rest, so they didn't play.
The league commissioner is now going to look at the rule and see if it needs to change.
Lionel Messi was suspended for one game by MLS for missing the All-Star game.
Jordi Alba also missed the All-Star game and was suspended.
The suspensions are due to league rules requiring All-Star game participation.
Inter Miami rested Messi and Alba to prioritize their health.
MLS Commissioner will review the policy regarding All-Star game participation.
- Who
- Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Inter Miami, MLS Commissioner Don Garber.
- What
- Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were suspended for missing the MLS All-Star Game.
- When
- Before Inter Miami's match against FC Cincinnati.
- Where
- Major League Soccer (MLS).
- Why
- Due to league rules regarding participation in the All-Star Game.
Inter Miami
MLS
Player Rest vs. League Rules
Inter Miami
Inter Miami prioritized player rest and health.
MLS
MLS enforced its rule requiring All-Star game participation.
- Players Suspended
- Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba
- Reason for Suspension
- Missing MLS All-Star Game
- Team Affected
- Inter Miami
- MLS Commissioner
- Don Garber
- Commissioner's Stance
- Review of the Rule
Sources
Lionel Messi suspended over MLS All-Star no-show: league
'Hope It Doesn't Have Long-Term Impact': Inter Miami Co-Owner Reveals Messi 'Upset' With Suspension
‘Suspending Lionel Messi is draconian’: Controversy in the USA as Inter Miami owner slams MLS for action against star
Explained: Why Lionel Messi has been given a one-match ban by MLS
