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Inter Miami's Messi fined for grabbing New York City coach by the neck

Video footage showed Messi approach the coach and grab the back of his neck

Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts against New York City FC during the second half at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA on Feb 22, 2025. Photo: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images via Reuters

Reuters

Published : 26 Feb 2025, 03:26 PM

Updated : 26 Feb 2025, 03:26 PM

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has been fined an undisclosed amount for grabbing one of New York City FC's coaching staff on the neck after Saturday's MLS opener, the league said.

Video footage showed Messi approach the coach and grab the back of his neck, causing him to pull away from the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner after the 2-2 draw in Miami.

The fine was imposed by the MLS' Disciplinary Committee on Tuesday.

The top-flight North American league also fined Messi's teammate Luis Suarez on Tuesday for violating the same "face/head/neck of an opponent policy" during halftime, when he pinched the back of Norwegian defender Birk Risa's neck.

Miami are due to play Sporting KC later on Tuesday in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.