Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount by Major League Soccer (MLS) for breaching the league’s policy regarding physical contact with the face, head, or neck of an opponent.
The fine follows an incident after the 2-2 draw between Inter Miami and New York City FC on February 22, 2025.
The MLS Disciplinary Committee imposed the penalty on the 37-year-old forward for approaching a member of the New York City FC coaching staff and placing his hand on the back of their neck.
Messi’s teammate, Luis Suarez, was also fined for a similar infraction, after pinching the neck of opposing player Birk Risa during halftime of the same match.
