SPORTS

Lionel Messi Fined for Striking Opponent

PUBLISHED Aug 22, 2026, 8:23 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Lionel Messi Fined for Striking Opponent

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 91%

Right 9%

Sources: 11

Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer for striking an opponent during Inter Miami's 2-2 draw with the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday, August 20 . The incident occurred in the 101st minute when the 39-year-old Argentine forward approached Quinn Sullivan in the centre circle and slapped the 22-year-old midfielder on the back of the head . Referee Filip Dujic did not see the altercation and issued no cards . The MLS Disciplinary Committee reviewed footage and levied an undisclosed fine for violating the league's policy regarding hands to the face, head, or neck of an opponent . No suspension was imposed, allowing Messi to remain available for Inter Miami . Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined for grabbing Sullivan around the neck during a second-half tussle . Meanwhile, the Independent Review Panel unanimously overturned Cavan Sullivan's red card—issued after a scuffle with Yannick Bright—rescinding a one-match ban and fine . The match featured two Messi goal contributions, with his 13th MLS goal of the season . The result extended Miami's winless run to four matches .

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2005: Messi debuted professionally for Barcelona, beginning his legendary career.
· 2014: He played in the World Cup final losing to Germany.
· 2021: He left Barcelona to join Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent.
· 2022: Messi captained Argentina to win the World Cup in Qatar.
· 2023: He signed with Inter Miami, transforming the club's fortunes.
· July 2026: Messi scored eight goals in Argentina's run to World Cup final.
· August 19, 2026: Messi slapped Quinn Sullivan during the match's stoppage time.
· August 21, 2026: MLS confirmed his fine for violating conduct policies.
· August 22, 2026: News of Messi's disciplinary action was publicly reported.
· Outlook: Messi is expected to continue playing for Inter Miami this season.
· Outlook: He will likely face scrutiny from opponents seeking a reaction.
· Outlook: MLS referees may watch his interactions more closely in future

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Messi's fine adds disciplinary attention but no immediate competitive suspension.
Possible long-term US impact: Repeated incidents could increase scrutiny of Messi's conduct within MLS.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize MLS rulings, match footage, and reputable reporting.
Most Affected: Messi, Sullivan, Inter Miami, Philadelphia Union, and MLS face scrutiny.