Messi is not happy with his suspension from MLS and the tension could affect his future in Miami amid contract talks.
Inter Miami Owner Makes Alarming Lionel Messi Admission originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
After two days of fans and media alike wondering whether or not Major League Soccer would punish Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for skipping the MLS All-Star Game, the league announced its decision on Friday.
Former FC Barcelona teammates Messi and Alba will be suspended for one match, IMCF's clash with Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
According to Inter Miami CF managing owner Jorge Mas, his captain Messi was "extremely upset" — an alarming statement given that the 38-year-old World Cup winner is in the middle of drawn-out talks for a contract extension in Miami.
"I’m hopeful it doesn’t have an impact long-term," Mas said, before warning that the decision to punish Messi — which was consistent with MLS rules — has shifted his future outlook on the American soccer league.
"Will it have an impact on (Messi’s) perception on the league and its rules?" Mas continued. "No doubt.”
Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas on Lionel Messi's suspension when asked about contract talks:
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) July 25, 2025
“Lionel Messi is extremely upset. I’m hopeful it doesn’t have an impact long-term.
Will it have an impact on (Messi’s) perception on the league and its rules? No doubt.” pic.twitter.com/UUzRcCDYMD
MLS commissioner Don Garber called the decision to suspend the Inter Miami stars "very difficult," but he ultimately ceded to the long-standing policy while expressing openness to changing the rule in the future.
Tension Between Inter Miami, Messi and MLS
MLS rules dictate a one-match suspension for any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without a legitimate medical excuse. So why the outrage from Messi and the Inter Miami brass?
For better or for worse, people have come to expect preferential treatment for Inter Miami since they signed the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Their worldwide appeal has resulted in groundbreaking broadcast partnerships, historic crowds and a significant jump in sponsorship revenue for MLS.
FIFA even bent the rules to award the unicorn franchise qualification to the Club World Cup this summer, which ended up as part of the reason Messi skipped the All-Star Game.
Prior to Wednesday's All-Star Game, Messi had started 10 matches in 40 days, playing through injury to help the Herons make it to the round of 16 in the Club World Cup. With yet another competition, the 2025 Leagues Cup, starting next week, Messi opted for rest instead of a flight to Austin to play with the MLS All-Stars.
MLS commissioner Don Garber’s prepared statement on the suspensions of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba:#InterMiamiCF#Messi𓃵pic.twitter.com/4Q4HyrxDhl
— Franco Panizo (@FrancoPanizo) July 25, 2025
Some people thought Inter Miami would catch a break given the scheduling circumstances, but instead their players were given an extra game off via suspension.
It may have been exactly what Messi needed and wanted, but Mas going public with his statement shows the continued push and pull between the MLS and the face of the league.
If Messi does not end up extending his contract beyond 2025, Inter Miami could have a possible scapegoat in place, and the league would have much bigger problems than whether or not he played in the All-Star Game.
Related: Inter Miami’s Jordi Alba Sends Clear Message on Lionel Messi’s Future
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
