Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer (MLS) for an altercation with a member of New York City FC’s coaching staff following Saturday’s 2-2 draw at DRV PNK Stadium.
The incident, captured on video and widely circulated, showed Messi grabbing the NYCFC coach by the neck, prompting the staff member to pull away.
The MLS Disciplinary Committee announced the undisclosed fine on Tuesday, citing a violation of the league’s policy regarding “face/head/neck of an opponent.” The incident occurred after the final whistle, amidst the post-match handshakes and discussions.
Adding to the disciplinary actions, Messi’s Inter Miami teammate, Luis Suarez, was also fined for a similar infraction during the same match.
Suarez was sanctioned for pinching the back of Norwegian defender Birk Risa’s neck during halftime, also violating the MLS policy.
While the specifics of the fines were not disclosed by the league, the dual sanctions highlight the MLS’s commitment to maintaining discipline and sportsmanship on the field.
These off-field incidents come as Inter Miami secured a significant victory in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, advancing to the second round.
The team’s 3-1 win over Sporting Kansas City, played before the disciplinary news broke, solidified their progression with a 4-1 aggregate score.
Messi himself contributed to the victory, opening the scoring in the 19th minute. Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez added to the tally before halftime, with Memo Rodriguez scoring a consolation goal for Sporting Kansas City in the 63rd minute.
“We are pleased to advance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup,” said a spokesperson for Inter Miami, focusing on the team’s achievement. “The team performed exceptionally well, and we are looking forward to the next round.”
Inter Miami’s next challenge will be against 2024 CONCACAF Caribbean Cup champions Cavalier FC. The first leg is scheduled for March 6th at Chase Stadium in Miami, followed by the second leg at Stadium East Field in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 13th.
