Major League Soccer (MLS) is currently investigating allegations regarding an unauthorized entry into the officials’ locker room following the match between Inter Miami and LAFC on Saturday, March 1, 2024, at the LA Memorial Coliseum. The inquiry was prompted after a video surfaced online, showing Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi appearing to approach the referees’ area.
In response to the circulating video, Chris Rivett, director of communications for the Professional Referee Organization, clarified that Messi did not actually enter the officials’ locker room. “After speaking with match officials, we can confirm he did not enter the premises,” Rivett stated in an interview with ESPN.
The MLS Disciplinary Committee is responsible for addressing such incidents, and it typically announces its findings before the next round of matches. However, the timeline for deliberations can differ significantly based on the specifics of the investigation. Players retain the option to appeal any decisions made, which can further extend the announcement of outcomes.
Inter Miami’s head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the situation during a post-match press conference, stating that he did not observe any signs of frustration from Messi regarding the officiating throughout the game. “No, no, no, I didn’t see anything. The truth is that the match finished and then I went into the locker room,” Mascherano remarked when questioned about Messi’s demeanor.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami is scheduled to face Orlando City on March 1, 2024, at Inter&Co Stadium. As the investigation unfolds, both fans and officials alike are keenly awaiting the MLS’s final ruling on the matter. The implications of this incident may resonate beyond the immediate match, influencing perceptions of player conduct and officiating standards in the league.
