MLS fines Messi after incident with Sullivan

Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer for his altercation with Philadelphia Union’s Quinn Sullivan during the closing moments of the August 19 match. At the 101st minute, cameras caught the Inter Miami forward striking Sullivan in the face, an action that sparked debate online after referee Filip Dujic booked the American but took no disciplinary action against Messi.

MLS later issued an official statement confirming the sanction, citing a violation of the league’s policy regarding contact with an opponent’s face, head or neck. The amount of the fine was not disclosed. The match ended 2–2, offering little satisfaction for Miami despite Messi scoring in the first half and dedicating the goal to his late father Jorge.

While the gesture appeared mild, the league noted it was worthy of at least a yellow card, with harsher punishment applicable in cases of violent conduct. Messi acknowledged his mistake and accepted the decision.