Lionel Messi Suspended for MLS All-Star Game Absence: Inter Miami Reacts

MIAMI, FL (July 25, 2025) — Lionel Messi will miss Inter Miami's match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday after Major League Soccer issued a one-game suspension for his absence from the MLS All-Star Game. Messi and teammate Jordi Alba were both ineligible for the match due to the league’s rule, which mandates players who skip the All-Star Game without prior approval be suspended for their club’s next game.

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas expressed his frustration with the decision, calling the suspension “draconian.” Mas confirmed that the decision for Messi and Alba to skip the All-Star Game was made by the club, citing concerns over the players' health and fitness due to a busy schedule that included nine matches in just 36 days.

"Lionel Messi is very upset, like we all are in the club, with the fact that they won’t be able to play tomorrow night," Mas said in a public news conference. "But I think what we have to do as a club is to get together as one, have an attitude that is us against the world."

The suspension comes at a critical point in the season for Inter Miami, who are fighting for a spot in the MLS playoffs. The match against FC Cincinnati is particularly important as the team looks to climb the standings in the Eastern Conference.

Mas reiterated that the decision to skip the All-Star Game was not taken lightly, emphasizing the club’s commitment to the well-being of its players.

“Obviously, it was not a positive reaction from Messi and Alba. They want to compete, they want to play games. That’s what they’re here for, to play and win,” Mas said. "They understand the magnitude of tomorrow’s night’s game, so no, their reaction was exactly as expected."

Inter Miami had communicated with the league earlier in the week, informing MLS that both Messi and Alba would not attend the event due to the congested schedule. Mas confirmed that the club will continue to prioritize player health in future situations where the All-Star Game conflicts with important league matches.

“If faced with this situation next year, we’ll make the same decision,” Mas said. “It’s untenable to ask players to participate in an exhibition game after playing a high number of competitive matches.”

MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the situation, stating that the league would review its policies moving forward and work with players to determine if adjustments are necessary.

While Messi’s contract with Inter Miami expires at the end of the 2025 season, Mas expressed confidence that the suspension would not affect ongoing contract extension negotiations.

“Will it have an impact initially in the player’s perception of how the league rules work? Absolutely, no doubt,” Mas said. “But I’m hopeful it doesn’t have an impact long term.”

Inter Miami will face FC Cincinnati on Saturday without Messi and Alba, two of their key players, as they look to remain in playoff contention in the second half of the season.