MLS: Lionel Messi did not breach policy after review

MLS has determined Lionel Messi did not breach league policy after an internal review of an incident following Inter Miami’s season opener against LAFC. A video circulating on social media appeared to show Messi entering the referees' locker-room area, but MLS and the Professional Referee Organization confirmed the space was not restricted and that Messi did not access the officials' premises.

Miami, the defending MLS Cup champions, began the season with a loss in front of more than 75,000 fans at the LA Memorial Coliseum. LAFC took the lead through David Martinez in the 38th minute, Denis Bouanga scored in the 73rd and Nathan Ordaz added a 94th-minute goal.

Video circulating after the match showed Messi seemingly attempting to enter the officials' locker-room while being restrained by teammate Luis Suarez. MLS officials said he did not enter any unauthorized locations and that the door he used was not the referees' locker room or a restricted area.

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