What happened: Messi had been voted into the 2026 lineup before post-World Cup rest plans took effect. A preseason agreement between MLS and its players’ association permits individualized recovery schedules.
Why it matters: The decision clears a disciplinary hurdle from Messi’s return from the World Cup. It also establishes how the league’s rest protocol applies after the tournament.
By the numbers: Messi will miss a third consecutive MLS All-Star Game, covering 2024 through 2026. His 2025 absence resulted in a one-match suspension.
What to watch: The next marker is Messi’s return to training after his post-World Cup rest.