League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: General

Lionel Messi to miss MLS All-Star Game but avoids second ban

ESPN Soccer • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 4:55 PM

Last updated Jul 26, 2026

Lionel Messi to miss MLS All-Star Game but avoids second ban

Summary

Lionel Messi will miss the MLS All-Star Game again this season. The league announced on July 26, 2026, that he will not face a suspension for his absence, unlike last season. Messi's prior missing of the event had drawn scrutiny, but this time he has escaped further disciplinary action. The decision allows him to focus on his ongoing commitments with Inter Miami.

Source Links

ESPN Soccer

Key Details

•Messi missed the MLS All-Star Game for the second consecutive season.
•He will not receive a suspension this year.
•The league announced the decision on July 26, 2026.
•Messi's previous absence led to a suspension last season.
•He continues to focus on his play with Inter Miami.

Latest Updates

5:17 PMESPN Soccer — Messi escapes second ban for missing All-Star Game...

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi is set to miss the MLS All-Star Game for the second season running, but this time will escape a suspension, the league announced on Saturday.
— ESPN Soccerby Jamie Barton

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MLS Soccer