Messi Leads to Suspension of Mexican Referee

The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) has banned Mexican referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava for 6 month after he requested Lionel Messi’s autograph following Inter Miami’s 1 - 0 win over Sporting Kansas City in the CONCACAF Champions Cup last week.

Ortiz approached Messi at the end of the match to ask for autograph which he later claimed was for family member with special needs. CONCACAF ruled that this was violation of its code of ethics for referees which requires officials to remain impartial at all times.

"The referee’s actions were inconsistent with CONCACAF’s code of conduct and officiating protocols" the governing body stated.

Although Ortiz apologized and accepted full responsibility, CONCACAF handed him 6 month suspension from all continental competitions. he'll still be allowed to officiate in Mexico’s Liga MX, despite the league being under CONCACAF's jurisdiction.

The suspension raises doubts over Ortiz’s chances of officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico. His suspension from major CONCACAF tournaments could affect his standing as international referee.

Inter Miami will next face Sporting Kansas City in the 2nd leg of their Champions Cup tie, holding 1 - 0 advantage from the 1st match.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.