# MLS disciplinary action against Lionel Messi

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mls-disciplinary-action-against-lionel-messi
> Updated: 2026-08-24T18:28:58.000Z. Sources: 49. Developments: 3.

Major League Soccer (MLS) issued a fine to Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi following a 2-2 draw against the Philadelphia Union on August 19. The disciplinary action stemmed from an incident in the 101st minute where Messi made contact with the back of Philadelphia midfielder Quinn Sullivan’s head following a verbal exchange. While the referee did not issue a card during the match because his back was turned, the league determined the contact violated policies regarding contact to an opponent’s face, head, or neck.

The match was marked by several disciplinary incidents, including the ejections of Inter Miami’s Yannick Bright and Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan. However, the MLS Independent Review Panel unanimously voted to rescind the red card and suspension previously issued to Sullivan. Inter Miami defender Ian Fray also received an undisclosed fine for separate contact involving Sullivan’s neck.

Despite the disciplinary measures, Messi scored his first goal since the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Messi shared a tribute on Instagram, describing his late father as both a father and a friend who provided unwavering support. Following his goal, Messi dedicated the moment to his father by pointing to the sky. Inter Miami currently occupies second place in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leader Nashville.

## Claims

- The MLS disciplinary committee fined Lionel Messi for striking an opponent. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- The fine was issued for using hands on the face, head, or neck of an opponent. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- The referee did not issue a card to Messi during the match despite the incident. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Cavan Sullivan and Yannick Bright were sent off following further tension during stoppage time. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- The match between Inter Miami and Philadelphia ended in a 2-2 draw. (corroborated by 4 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-24: Lionel Messi fined by MLS following physical altercation

Lionel Messi was fined by MLS following a physical altercation with Quinn Sullivan during Inter Miami’s draw against Philadelphia Union. The match was Messi’s first goal since his father’s death.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lionel-messi-fined-by-mls-following-physical-altercation

### 2026-08-22: Lionel Messi fined by MLS for contact with opponent

MLS has fined Lionel Messi for making contact with Philadelphia Union player Quinn Sullivan’s head during a recent 2-2 draw between Inter Miami and Philadelphia.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lionel-messi-fined-by-mls-for-striking-opponent

### 2026-08-20: Lionel Messi fined by MLS for contact with opponent

Lionel Messi has been fined by MLS for slapping Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan on the neck during a 2-2 draw. Messi faces no suspension and remains available for Inter Miami's next match.

39 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lionel-messi-faces-potential-mls-sanctions-after-altercation

---
Cite as: MLS disciplinary action against Lionel Messi. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mls-disciplinary-action-against-lionel-messi