Messi to Skip MLS All-Star Game as League Eyes Post-World Cup Growth

Lionel Messi will not participate in the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, though league officials confirmed he will not face a suspension this time for the absence. Unlike previous instances where skipping league-mandated events led to disciplinary concerns, the Inter Miami star has reportedly been granted an exception. The decision comes as the league tries to balance the marketing demands of its biggest star with the physical toll of his heavy schedule.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber spoke about the league's need to capitalize on the growing soccer fervor in the United States, particularly as the country prepares for the upcoming World Cup. Garber emphasized that while Messi's presence is a massive draw, the league's growth is also being fueled by increased viewership and new investments in technology. The league is preparing to launch an official replay center for the 2027 season to improve officiating consistency, mirroring systems already in place in the NBA.

The All-Star Game is also seeing a shift in player dynamics, with veteran Casemiro reportedly eager to join Messi at Inter Miami. This follows a trend of international stars gravitating toward the Florida club. On the field, recent MLS match results saw the Portland Timbers defeat Real Salt Lake 2-1 and LAFC dominate Sporting KC 4-0. The league continues to see high attendance figures, though some critics argue that the competitive intensity of All-Star exhibitions remains a challenge to be solved.

Beyond the All-Star festivities, the league is grappling with broader issues of communication and player safety. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, during her own All-Star press conference, admitted that leadership 'must be better' at communicating with players regarding safety and online harassment. The dialogue highlighting the growing pains of North American professional soccer and basketball leagues as they experience 'hypergrowth' and increased cultural scrutiny.