Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount by Major League Soccer following an off-the-ball altercation with Philadelphia Union attacker Quinn Sullivan. The disciplinary action comes as an independent review panel unanimously rescinded the stoppage-time red card shown to 16-year-old Manchester City signee Cavan Sullivan during the fiery 2-2 draw.

MLS fine Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and Ian Fray for separate incidents in match against Philadelphia Union.

Things took a dramatic turn towards the end of Wednesday night’s clash.

Messi rejoined Inter Miami on Aug. 2 after a transcendent performance at the 2026 FIFA men's World Cup in June and July. The 39-year-old star scored eight goals and notched four assists to lead Argentina to the World Cup final, where Argentina lost to Spain in extra time.

The Union made it clear that despite their place in the standings, a payroll that dwarfs most of the league, and players that aren’t world-renowned like Miami’s, they’re not about to take disrespect.

Lionel Messi could be facing discipline from MLS after a late-game incident overshadowed Inter Miami's 2-2 draw with the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday night. Deep into stoppage time, a scuffle broke out after Miami defender Ian Fray made contact with Philadelphia's Quinn Sullivan,

Messi, 39, the league’s back-to-back MVP, has been Miami’s lone bright spot during the club’s four-match winless streak. Miami lost two of its three Leagues Cup matches, then was routed 4-1 by Nashville SC on Saturday. Wednesday’s result leaves Miami in second place in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind Nashville.