Why Lionel Messi Will Miss the 2026 MLS All-Star Game After His World Cup Heroics

Lionel Messi, who remains the biggest star in Major League Soccer, will not participate in this year’s MLS All-Star game. Fresh from a stunning World Cup campaign that reaffirmed his status as one of football’s greatest talents, Messi plans to take an extended break before returning to Inter Miami.

This means the league will miss its top draw during one of the most anticipated events on the MLS calendar. Here is what we know about why Messi is sitting out the 2026 MLS All-Star Game.

Why Messi Is Missing the MLS All-Star Game

Messi earned a spot in his third straight MLS All-Star game while still competing at the World Cup. His World Cup performance included 12 goals and eight assists over 14 matches. Despite this, he won’t be part of the All-Star festivities because it falls within the 21-day rest period given to players at the end of the season.

Alongside him, teammate and fellow Argentine Rodrigo De Paul, also playing for Inter Miami, plans to coordinate with the club on their return dates. Both players will miss at least the next two Inter Miami matches, according to the Sports Business Journal.

Messi's Expected Return to Inter Miami

The exact date for Messi’s return remains uncertain. He is set to miss the All-Star game plus a minimum of two more games. After the rest period, which began July 20, he can take time off until August 10. Should he maximize this break, he would miss five Inter Miami matches in total, excluding the All-Star event.

Following the rest, Messi plans to spend some time in Miami before heading back to his hometown of Rosario for a short break.

Messi's Last Appearance Before the Break

Messi last played for Inter Miami on May 24. In that match, he assisted twice and took three shots during a thrilling 6-4 victory over the Philadelphia Union. He left the field in the 73rd minute after grabbing the back of his leg. Thankfully, this turned out to be a precautionary withdrawal, as he was fit throughout the World Cup, scoring eight goals and assisting four times en route to Argentina’s final.

Details on the MLS All-Star Game

The MLS All-Star Game is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29. It will feature the best talent from MLS against top players from Liga MX. Among those selected are World Cup stars like Richie Laryea, Matt Freese, Lucas Herrington, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Son Heung-Min. The MLS team will be led by coach Dean Smith.

Messi’s Age and Status in MLS

At 39 years old, Messi ranks as the sixth-oldest player in MLS. Only Diego Chara, Hugo Lloris, Luis Suarez, Maxi Moralez, and Alejandro Bedoya are older. Despite his age, Messi continues to influence the game at the highest levels.