Lionel Messi will miss the 2026 MLS All-Star Game for the second year in a row but will not face suspension this time. His absence follows his recent participation in the 2026 World Cup, where he and his Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul reached the finals, ultimately losing to Spain. The league and the MLS Players Association agreed that players returning from the World Cup could negotiate rest and training schedules individually, allowing Messi and De Paul to skip the All-Star Game without penalty.

Messi’s previous absence in 2025 led to a one-game suspension by MLS due to fatigue, sparking controversy and tension between the star player and MLS commissioner Don Garber. Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas criticized the suspension as overly harsh, and Garber later admitted the league’s handling could have been improved. Their relationship has gradually progressed since then, though Garber acknowledged Messi still harbors some frustration.

After the World Cup ended on July 19, Messi and De Paul have not played in Inter Miami’s first two MLS games of the season, benefiting from a FIFA and FIFPRO-mandated 21-day rest period following international competition. This rest rule aims to protect players’ health amid demanding schedules and heavy international commitments. Their exemption from immediate club duty is consistent with the new MLS agreement allowing individualized return-to-play discussions.

MLS commissioner Don Garber is optimistic about the league’s growth following the U.S. co-hosting of the World Cup, viewing the influx of soccer interest as an opportunity to expand the fan base. Garber emphasized the league’s focus on building trust and connections with fans in MLS stadiums to convert newcomers into dedicated followers. The league continues to navigate the balance between star player demands and broader league interests, with Messi’s situation serving as a notable example.