MLS: Lionel Messi cleared after controversy against LAFC

World 23 February 2026 at 06:19

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

21.02.26 FT MLS USA

Los Angeles FC

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Inter Miami CF

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Major League Soccer (MLS) has definitively closed the controversy surrounding Lionel Messi, after viral footage emerged following Inter Miami’s season opener against Los Angeles FC. After reviewing the facts, the league confirmed that the Argentine international did not violate any regulations.

MLS puts an end to the controversy: no sanction for Messi

According to Reuters, an MLS spokesperson explained that video analysis showed the corridor Messi used did not lead to the referees’ dressing room or any restricted area. Therefore, no breach of the rules was identified.

GOAL also confirmed that league officials assured the player had not entered any unauthorized area and that no disciplinary report had been filed against him.

Chris Rivett, Director of Communications for the Professional Referee Organization, further told ESPN: "After speaking with the referees, we can confirm he did not enter the officials’ dressing room."

To recap, Inter Miami suffered a 3-0 defeat to Los Angeles FC in front of 75,673 fans, setting a new attendance record for an MLS season opener.

MLS: Lionel Messi and Inter Miami stumble out of the gate

Related teams and leagues

Los Angeles FC

Inter Miami CF

MLS USA