Lionel Messi’s referee confrontation in tunnel did not violate policy, MLS says

February 22, 2026

TL;DR

MLS cleared Lionel Messi of wrongdoing regarding a post-match confrontation with officials.
The incident occurred after Inter Miami's 3-0 loss to LAFC.
An MLS spokesperson confirmed Messi did not enter a restricted area or the referees' locker room.
This case is distinct from Matt Miazga's 2023 suspension for entering a referee's changing room.
Messi has a history of criticizing MLS officials, though he has never faced disciplinary action for actions towards referees in the league.
He has previously been disciplined for unrelated incidents, including an altercation with an assistant coach and missing the MLS All-Star Game.

Continue reading the original article