Lionel Messi fined as MLS takes action over Inter Miami match incident
The league said Messi violated its policy on contact with an opponent’s face, head or neck. The Major League Soccer Disciplinary Committee imposed an undisclosed fine on the Inter Miami forward. The incident happened in the 101st minute of the 2-2 match in Chester.
Late tension in the match
The incident came during a tense period late in the game. Inter Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined by MLS for the same type of violation.
Tempers rose during second-half stoppage time as Inter Miami’s Yannick Bright and Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan were shown red cards. Sullivan later won an appeal against his suspension and fine.
Sullivan cleared after appeal
An Independent Review Panel unanimously supported Sullivan’s appeal over the red card shown in the 102nd minute. He is now eligible to play in Philadelphia’s next match against Austin FC.
The panel included representatives from US Soccer, Canada Soccer and an independent member nominated by the Professional Referee Organization. Philadelphia successfully challenged the decision, while the club retains its available unsuccessful appeals for the season.
Other MLS players fined
MLS also fined Toronto FC defender Walker Zimmerman for failing to leave the field quickly after receiving a red card. Minnesota United defender Anthony Markanich was fined separately for violating the league’s policy on simulation or embellishment.
Messi’s fine adds another disciplinary development to a match that already featured several incidents. The exact amount of his fine was not disclosed by the league.
The decision shows that MLS is enforcing its rules even against high-profile players. Messi’s undisclosed fine follows a match that became increasingly tense in its final minutes.
The incident did not change the 2-2 result between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union. However, the disciplinary action highlights the league’s focus on controlling player conduct.
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