Inter Miami star Lionel Messi was fined by MLS for an unsportsmanlike act after slapping Philadelphia Union’s Quinn Sullivan on the back of the head during a 2-2 draw late in stoppage time.

The referee did not see the incident and did not sanction it at the time, but MLS later imposed a fine under league disciplinary rules regarding hands to the face/head.

Two red cards were shown in the match overall, and Sullivan’s brother Cavan had a one-game suspension rescinded after a post-match review.

The story notes related sports news items and results from other matches and events for broader context.

The incident occurred last Thursday, and the piece provides an English translation along with the original German link.

Philadelphia Union’s successful appeal does not count toward the league’s two-appeal-per-season limit.

Union retain two unsuccessful appeals in 2026, with Sullivan’s reversal not impacting their appeal credits.

MLS emphasizes its policy on hands to the face/head/neck and its application in tense moments of matches.

MLS regularly reviews match footage with its disciplinary committee after games to determine if further sanctions are needed.

Inter Miami remains in the Eastern Conference race with 20 fixtures played, while Philadelphia sits 13th, with Cavan Sullivan’s availability for upcoming matches noted.

Tributes to Messi’s late father from FC Barcelona are mentioned, alongside ongoing coverage of Messi’s personal loss.

The report references broader context, including FIFA sanctions announced against Argentina players and coverage from BBC Sport and other outlets.