Major League Soccer has concluded its review of a recent post-match event involving Inter Miami's star player, Lionel Messi, confirming that no disciplinary action will be taken against him. The incident, which sparked considerable discussion, occurred following Inter Miami's season-opening match against Los Angeles FC. An official MLS statement clarified that Messi did not breach any league regulations, dispelling initial concerns about a potential confrontation with match officials. This outcome ensures that the celebrated forward remains available for upcoming fixtures, maintaining team cohesion amidst the start of the new season.
MLS Confirms No Infraction by Messi After Locker Room Encounter
In a significant development on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Major League Soccer announced that Lionel Messi would not face any penalties for his actions following Inter Miami's match against Los Angeles FC at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. A video circulated online showed Messi in what appeared to be an attempt to access a specific area near the locker rooms, with his teammate Luis Suarez seemingly trying to intervene. However, an MLS spokesperson, providing insights to The Athletic, clarified the situation, stating emphatically that the door in question did not lead to the referees' private locker room and that Messi did not enter any restricted zone. This explanation effectively put an end to speculation regarding potential misconduct, differentiating it from a similar incident in 2023 where FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga received a three-match suspension for entering a referees' locker room. Messi, who has a clean disciplinary record concerning interactions with referees, has previously faced minor sanctions for missing an MLS All-Star Game and for violating a "hands to the face/head/neck" policy. Inter Miami, having suffered a 3-0 defeat in their opener, is now preparing to host Orlando City the following Sunday.
This incident underscores the intense scrutiny surrounding high-profile athletes like Messi and highlights the importance of thorough investigation before drawing conclusions. The swift clarification from MLS not only vindicates Messi but also reinforces the league's commitment to fair play and transparent disciplinary processes. For teams and players, it serves as a reminder of the need to understand and adhere to all league protocols, especially in the emotionally charged environment of professional sports. The focus can now shift back to the competition on the field as Inter Miami looks to rebound from their initial loss and build momentum in the season.