Lionel Messi involved in on-field altercation during Inter Miami match

During the Inter Miami versus Philadelphia Union match on August 20, 2026, which ended in a 2-2 draw, Lionel Messi was involved in a physical altercation with opponent Quinn Sullivan. The incident occurred during second-half stoppage time, when the 39-year-old Argentine player slapped Sullivan on the back of the neck, leading to a heated verbal confrontation between the two athletes.

Despite the clear interaction, the match referee did not issue a card, and a subsequent review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) also resulted in no disciplinary action on the field. While reports confirm that an undisclosed fine has been issued to Messi for his conduct, the Major League Soccer (MLS) organization has not publicly specified the exact amount. The incident is currently slated for further evaluation by the MLS Disciplinary Committee to determine if additional sanctions are necessary.