Messi to Miss MLS All-Star Game Again, This Time Without Sanction

Lionel Messi will miss the MLS All-Star Game for the second year in a row, but this time he will face no punishment. Last year, his absence was deemed a breach of duty, resulting in a one-game suspension that caused significant controversy. Messi was reportedly unhappy with that decision.

This summer, Messi played for Argentina in the World Cup, reaching the final but losing. His lack of motivation to participate in the All-Star Game is understandable. MLS had previously committed to individually reviewing the return of each World Cup participant to ensure adequate rest. Following those discussions, the league granted permission for both Messi and his Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo de Paula to skip the All-Star Game.

Both players have already missed several Inter Miami games after the World Cup. The MLS All-Star Game will take place Wednesday in Charlotte, featuring the league's top players against stars from the Mexican Liga MX.