Why Lionel Messi Will Skip the 2026 MLS All-Star Game After World Cup Glory

Lionel Messi, arguably the biggest name in MLS, will not participate in this year's All-Star game. After his stunning performance in the 2026 World Cup where he reaffirmed his place among soccer’s elite, Messi is preparing to return to Inter Miami, but only after a significant rest period.

This break means that MLS will miss its star player during one of the league's marquee events. Here is what we know about Messi’s upcoming absence from the 2026 MLS All-Star Game.

Reason for Missing the MLS All-Star Game

Messi earned his third straight MLS All-Star selection during the World Cup, following an impressive season tally of 12 goals and eight assists across 14 matches. Despite this honor, he will skip the All-Star event due to the mandatory 21-day rest given to players at the end of the season.

Alongside his Argentine teammate Rodrigo De Paul, who also plays for Inter Miami, Messi plans to coordinate with the club on their return dates. The pair is expected to miss at least the next two Inter Miami matches, according to reports from Sports Business Journal.

When Will Messi Be Back for Inter Miami?

There’s no exact return date yet. Messi will miss the All-Star game and at least two subsequent league matches. He is currently in Miami but will take some time off in his hometown of Rosario.

The rest period began on Monday, July 20, and extends until August 10. If Messi uses the full 21 days, he could miss up to five Inter Miami games in addition to the All-Star match.

Messi's Last Appearance for Inter Miami

Messi last played for Inter Miami on May 24, contributing two assists and three shots before leaving the field in the 73rd minute due to a minor leg issue. This precautionary substitution worried fans briefly, but he bounced back strongly, delivering eight goals and four assists throughout the World Cup.

MLS All-Star Game Details

The All-Star game will occur on Wednesday, July 29, featuring top MLS talent against a team of Liga MX stars. Players like Richie Laryea, Matt Freese, Lucas Herrington, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Son Heung-Min will represent the MLS side coached by Dean Smith.

Messi's Status in MLS

At 39 years old, Messi ranks as the sixth-oldest player in the league, trailing veterans such as Diego Chara, Hugo Lloris, Luis Suarez, Maxi Moralez, and Alejandro Bedoya.