OFFICIAL: Messi receives ruling from MLS after Inter Miami’s 0-3 defeat

After doubts about Messi entering the referees' room post-defeat to LAFC, MLS has verified that he did not breach any regulations and will keep playing for Inter Miami in the upcoming season.

Upon conducting an internal review, MLS organizers determined that Lionel Messi did not break any league rules regarding the incident that stirred public attention after Inter Miami’s opening match against LAFC.

Earlier, a video circulated on social media showing Messi seemingly moving towards the referees’ locker area. This footage quickly sparked speculation that the Argentine superstar had accessed a restricted zone. However, MLS and the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) confirmed that the area Messi entered was not prohibited, and he did not approach the referees’ private room.

In the mentioned match, Inter Miami (the reigning MLS Cup champions) had a disappointing season start, losing in front of over 75,000 spectators at LA Memorial Coliseum (Los Angeles). LAFC took the lead in the 38th minute through David Martinez. In the second half, Denis Bouanga doubled the lead at the 73rd minute, before Nathan Ordaz sealed the victory with a goal in the 94th minute.

The controversial video emerged shortly after the game ended, showing Messi apparently trying to enter the referees’ area but being held back by teammate Luis Suarez. However, MLS officials confirmed to GOAL that Messi did not enter any unauthorized zones and emphasized that the door he opened was neither the referees’ locker room nor a restricted area.

Chris Rivett, PRO’s Communications Director, also defended Messi. Speaking to ESPN, he stated: “After consulting with the officials on duty, we can confirm he did not step inside the restricted area.”

Meanwhile, Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, said he was unaware of the incident: “No, no, I didn’t see anything. The truth is the match ended and I went straight to the locker room,” Mascherano commented.

MLS also confirmed to GOAL that the refereeing team did not file any complaints against Messi after the match.

According to the schedule, Messi and Inter Miami will return to action on March 1st, playing away against Orlando City in the next round of the MLS season.