A surprising absence from the 2026 MLS All-Star lineup
Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul will not feature in the 2026 MLS All-Star match, a decision made possible by the rest period mandated after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup. Both players have been granted permission to sit out the showcase without incurring any penalty, thanks to the joint FIFAPro and Major League Soccer agreements that govern player availability.
The situation marks a stark contrast to the previous year, when Messi found himself suspended for the 2025 edition after missing the game while fully fit. That sanction drew a sharp rebuke from Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas, who described the rule as “draconian” and questioned its fairness.
Despite the absence of the two star names, the All-Star squad still boasts nine participants who have tasted World Cup action. However, none of those players have seen competitive minutes since the tournament concluded, raising questions about their readiness and the league’s approach to integrating international talent.
What this means for the league
The episode underscores a broader shift in how modern football balances club commitments with international duties. By allowing high‑profile athletes to prioritize recovery, the sport’s governing bodies signal a growing emphasis on long‑term health, even if it means sidelining marquee names from promotional events.
Fans will have to wait until August for Messi and De Paul to rejoin Inter Miami, where they are expected to make their post‑World Cup returns. Their comeback will coincide with a series of matches that could determine the team’s trajectory in the latter half of the MLS season.