Messi fined by MLS for striking opponent in Inter Miami game

Major League Soccer announced on Thursday that Inter Miami will be fined for two separate disciplinary infractions that occurred during the club’s 2‑1 loss to the Philadelphia Union on August 17. Forward Lionel Messi was penalised for “unsporting conduct” after he appeared to exaggerate contact from Union defender Jose Kike Mendoza in the 34th minute, an action the league classified as simulation. The league’s disciplinary committee imposed a $10,000 fine on Messi and issued a formal warning, noting that the incident was reviewed in conjunction with the match officials’ report.

In a separate incident, Inter Miami defender Ian Fray received a $7,500 fine for a “dangerous tackle” on Union midfielder Alejandro Gómez in the 71st minute, which resulted in Gómez being forced to leave the field for treatment. MLS stated that the tackle was deemed a reckless challenge that endangered the safety of an opponent, and the fine reflects the league’s ongoing emphasis on player safety. Both penalties will be recorded on the players’ disciplinary histories, and the league indicated that further violations could result in additional sanctions, including suspensions.