Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer for slapping Philadelphia Union forward Quinn Sullivan during a 2-2 draw between Inter Miami and the Philadelphia Union on August 19. The incident occurred off the ball following a verbal exchange over an alleged elbow. MLS announced the punishment on August 21 without disclosing the fine amount. Messi had scored a goal and provided an assist in the match, his first goal contribution since the death of his father, Jorge Messi, on August 8. This marks Messi’s second disciplinary issue in six months, after a previous fine in February 2025 for neck contact with an NYCFC assistant coach.
Source: Read the original article
