Inter Miami owner calls MLS suspensions of Messi and Alba "draconian"

Inter Miami's managing owner Jorge Mas criticized Major League Soccer's (MLS) one-match suspensions of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba as "draconian." The suspensions were issued because both players skipped the MLS All-Star Game against Mexico's Liga MX, despite being voted in. Messi sat out to rest during a packed schedule, while Alba cited a previous injury. Mas stated the club made the decision for the players to miss the exhibition event.

MLS rules stipulate that any player who doesn't participate in the All-Star Game without prior league approval becomes ineligible for their club's next match. Consequently, Messi and Alba missed Inter Miami's home game against Cincinnati, which ended in a 0-0 draw. This result knocked Cincinnati out of first place in the Eastern Conference. Both players had practiced the day before in anticipation of playing before the suspension was announced.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged Messi's importance to the league, stating, "I don't think there's a player – or anyone – who has done more for Major League Soccer than Messi," and expressed understanding and respect for his commitment to Inter Miami. However, Garber explained that the league had to enforce its long-standing policy regarding All-Star Game participation. He added that MLS will re-evaluate the policy and work with players on how it should evolve.

Owner Mas reiterated Inter Miami's disagreement with both the suspension and the rule. He also pointed out that six MLS matches were scheduled for the Friday night less than 48 hours after the All-Star Game, arguing "That's not right... to the players."