The 2026 MLS All-Star Game, scheduled for July 29 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, will proceed without Lionel Messi, who has been a key player for Inter Miami. The Major League Soccer (MLS) announced that Messi will not participate in the game against the Liga MX All-Star Team due to a mandated 21-day rest and recovery period following his involvement in the World Cup.

Messi recently played in the World Cup Final for Argentina against Spain, which took place on July 19, 2026. Alongside Messi, his teammate Rodrigo De Paul was also selected for the All-Star Game but will not play for similar reasons. Both players are currently recovering from their intense World Cup commitments.

In Messi's absence, Inter Miami has chosen to replace him with Yannick Bright, while De Paul’s spot will be filled by Andrés Cubas. Other replacements include Guilherme and Philip Zinckernagel, stepping in for Hugo Cuypers and Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Last year, Messi faced a one-game suspension for skipping the 2025 MLS All-Star Game without prior approval from the league. This year, however, the MLS has confirmed that he will not be punished for missing the All-Star Game, as he has been granted an exemption under the league’s agreement with the Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA) for players returning from World Cup duty.

Messi is expected to return to Inter Miami in August after completing his recovery period. The decision to allow him and De Paul to rest reflects the league's commitment to player welfare, especially following the demanding schedule of the World Cup.