Lionel Messi and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul will not participate in the 2026 MLS All-Star Game as they have been granted special leave under a player welfare agreement established before the season started.
The 30th edition of the MLS All-Star event is scheduled for Sunday at Bank of America Stadium, but Messi and De Paul are excused from playing. This exemption is part of an arrangement between Major League Soccer and the MLS Players Association, which aligns with guidelines from the global players' union FIFPro.
Player Welfare Agreement Details
Before the 2026 season began, MLS and the players’ union agreed that players returning from World Cup duty would have individualized discussions with their clubs to determine appropriate rest and training schedules. This policy specifically covers players like Messi and De Paul, who represented Argentina in the recent World Cup.
According to the agreement, both players are excused from the All-Star Game without facing any disciplinary action, a contrast to previous years.
Messi’s History with the MLS All-Star Game
- In 2024, Messi missed the game due to an ankle injury from the Copa America final.
- In 2025, Messi and Jordi Alba withdrew on game day without injury documentation, resulting in a one-match suspension.
- This year marks the third consecutive time Messi has been selected but did not appear in the All-Star match.
Context of the World Cup and Future Outlook
Argentina reached the World Cup final but lost 1-0 to Spain at New York New Jersey Stadium, with the final moments marked by tense scenes. The demanding tournament schedule and physical toll on players like Messi have led to the implementation of the welfare policy to protect key athletes.
As Messi contemplates the possibility that this World Cup could be his last, questions remain about how his extended rest period will affect Inter Miami’s performance in the MLS season.
