Why Messi Was Suspended for Missing 2025 MLS All-Star

Lionel Messi Suspended After Skipping MLS All-Star Game: What It Means for Inter Miami

By Kickoff Zone Sports | July 26, 2025

Lionel Messi, the global icon and Inter Miami star, has been handed a one-match suspension by Major League Soccer for missing the 2025 MLS All-Star Game without league approval. The decision has sparked reactions across the football world, raising questions about MLS's policy, player welfare, and the balance between entertainment and competition.

Lionel Messi in Inter Miami kit, pictured amid the MLS All-Star Game controversy after receiving a one-match suspension for missing the event without league approval.

Why Was Lionel Messi Suspended?

According to MLS regulations, any player who fails to appear at the All-Star Game without prior league consent faces automatic suspension from their next regular season match.

Despite widespread speculation, Messi's absence was not due to injury. Reports confirm he was rested by club decision, with Inter Miami managing a congested fixture list—nine matches in just 36 days. Alongside Messi, teammate Jordi Alba was also suspended under the same rule.

“We did what was best for the players. The rule is outdated and unfair.” – Jorge Mas, Inter Miami co-owner.

Lionel Messi in Inter Miami jerseys, highlighting their absence from the MLS All-Star Game due to league suspension rules amid a congested match schedule.

What Match Will Messi Miss?

Lionel Messi will miss Inter Miami’s game against FC Cincinnati on July 26, 2025, a critical fixture as the team pushes for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. His suspension could disrupt team chemistry, especially given his 18-goal tally this season, which currently leads MLS.

The Bigger Picture: Is MLS Out of Touch?

Key Points of Controversy:

No medical excuse was provided, but Messi’s rest was club-mandated.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber defended the rule but hinted at possible future revisions.
The rule has been described as “draconian” by club officials.

While the All-Star Game is a showcase event for fans, critics argue the penalization of star players for choosing rest over fanfare could discourage long-term league loyalty—especially from global superstars used to elite European standards.

Fan Reaction and Media Buzz

The news has generated mixed responses on social media and in the press. Many fans understand the need for rest, especially given Messi’s age (38) and Inter Miami's packed schedule.

Related Tweets:

“Messi’s done more for MLS than the All-Star Game ever has. Let him rest!” – @MLSfanatic
“Imagine punishing LeBron for missing the NBA All-Star Game. Come on, MLS.” – @SportsTalkUSA

Messi’s done more for MLS than the All-Star Game ever has

Messi’s 2025 MLS Season Stats

Category	Value
Goals	18
Assists	9
Matches Played	21
Team Standing	2nd in East

Despite the suspension, Messi remains the heartbeat of Inter Miami’s campaign and the most-watched player in the league.

What’s Next for MLS?

MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the backlash and confirmed that the league will consider revising the All-Star Game participation rule in collaboration with players’ associations and clubs.

“No player has done more for MLS than Lionel Messi. But rules are rules.” – Don Garber

This episode could be a turning point in how MLS balances marketing priorities with player health

and long-term career management.

Final Thoughts

Lionel Messi’s suspension may be just one match, but its implications stretch far wider. It touches on league governance, star treatment, and the evolving professionalism of MLS. As Inter Miami regroups without their talisman, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely—on and off the pitch.