Lionel Messi Fined for Grabbing NYCFC Coach’s Neck During MLS Opener

The MLS Disciplinary Committee issued fines to Messi and teammate Luis Suárez for violating league rules on physical contact.

Lionel Messi was fined an undisclosed amount for grabbing the neck of New York City FC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy after a 2-2 draw in Inter Miami's season opener.
The incident occurred following a verbal exchange between Messi and the referee, with video showing Messi briefly walking away before returning to grab Ballouchy’s neck.
Luis Suárez, another Inter Miami player, was also fined for grabbing the neck of NYCFC defender Birk Risa during a halftime altercation.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano downplayed the incident, attributing it to the emotional nature of the game and criticizing media coverage as sensationalized.
Both Messi and Suárez remain eligible to play in upcoming matches, including Inter Miami's CONCACAF Champions Cup game against Sporting Kansas City on Tuesday night.