Lionel Messi fined by MLS for contact with opponent

Major League Soccer (MLS) has fined Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi an undisclosed amount following an incident during a 2-2 draw against the Philadelphia Union. The disciplinary action was taken after Messi was seen slapping Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan on the back of the neck during stoppage time. The league cited a violation of its policy regarding contact to an opponent’s face, head, or neck.

Inter Miami defender Ian Fray also received an undisclosed fine for a separate incident in the same match involving contact with Sullivan’s neck. While the match saw multiple disciplinary issues, including red cards for Yannick Bright of Inter Miami and Cavan Sullivan of Philadelphia, the MLS Independent Review Panel unanimously voted to rescind the red card and suspension issued to Cavan Sullivan.

Despite the fine, Messi is not facing a suspension and remains eligible for Inter Miami’s upcoming match against Toronto FC. The match also marked Messi’s first goal since the passing of his father, Jorge Messi.