Lionel Messi Cleared of Suspension After 2026 World Cup as MLS Confirms All-Star Game Decision

Lionel Messi will not face any suspension following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, despite the heated scenes that unfolded after the match.

Spain edged Argentina 1-0 to lift the trophy, and tensions boiled over at full-time as several Argentine players and staff became involved in confrontations with their opponents. Although FIFA opened an investigation into the incidents, Messi was not directly involved in the altercations.

Instead, the Inter Miami captain has received positive news regarding his return to club football.

Messi Excused from MLS All-Star Game

Major League Soccer has confirmed that both Lionel Messi and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul will be excused from participating in the 2026 MLS All-Star Game.

The decision follows an agreement between MLS, the MLS Players Association, FIFA, and FIFPRO, which guarantees players sufficient recovery time after major international tournaments such as the World Cup.

Under the player welfare agreement, competitors are entitled to a rest period before returning to club duties. As a result, Messi and De Paul will continue their post-World Cup break instead of taking part in the exhibition match.

No Disciplinary Action

Unlike previous seasons, Messi will not receive any punishment for missing the All-Star Game.

In earlier years, absences from the event without approved reasons resulted in one-match suspensions. However, because both players recently competed in the World Cup final, MLS has granted them an official exemption.

The league explained that clubs and players are expected to work together to determine the most appropriate schedule for rest, training, and competitive action following international tournaments.

Replacement Players Named

With Messi and De Paul unavailable, MLS has announced replacement players for the All-Star squad.

Among those selected are Houston Dynamo forward Guilherme, Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright, Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Andrés Cubas, and Chicago Fire’s Philip Zinckernagel.

Meanwhile, Sebastian Berhalter is also expected to miss the event due to his impending transfer to Middlesbrough.

Looking Ahead

Messi is now expected to complete his recovery period before rejoining Inter Miami in August. The additional rest should help ensure he returns fully refreshed as the MLS season resumes, with the club hoping their captain can lead them through the remainder of the campaign.