Report: MLS reviewing Lionel Messi's post-match actions

Field Level Media|published: Sun 22nd February, 13:07 2026

Feb 21, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi (10) moves the ball against Los Angeles FC midfielder Mathieu Choinière (66) during the second half at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-Imagn Images

Lionel Messi could face a suspension from MLS after the Inter Miami superstar was seen following referees through a door after Saturday night's 3-0 loss at Los Angeles FC, per The Athletic.

FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazaga was investigated and suspended three matches for "misconduct" after entering the referees' locker room in 2023 following a playoff match.

In the video, which was posted by Sintesis Deportes, Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez appears to attempt to prevent Messi from entering the room. Messi escapes Suarez's grasp before reappearing eight seconds later, joining his teammates walking to their locker room. It's unknown if the room Messi walked into was the referees' locker room.

MLS has yet to issue a statement, and its disciplinary committee usually issues decisions -- which include suspensions and fines -- by the middle of the week following the previous weekend's games.

Messi has never been suspended for any incident involving a referee, but he was suspended last summer for one match after being a no-show at the MLS All-Star Game. Also last season, he was fined "for violating the hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent policy" after a game.

Messi and Inter Miami are off until next Sunday, when the club takes on visiting Orlando City.

--Field Level Media

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