Overview

• Under a strict league policy, players who miss the All-Star Game without explicit permission automatically receive a one-game suspension.
• Messi and Alba will miss Inter Miami’s upcoming home match against Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati.
• Co-owner Jorge Mas called the punishment “draconian” and said both players are extremely upset with the ruling.
• Commissioner Don Garber described the decision as difficult but necessary, pledging to review the participation rule with players.
• The dispute highlights tensions over player workload and autonomy during a packed schedule, underscoring calls for rule modernization.