Five-time world footballer of the year Lionel Messi ban from international football for three months after he accused Copa América organizers of corruption.
Messi was shown a red card in the 37th minute against Chile during the 2019 Copa America Play-offs, following a clash with Gary Medel, who was also dismissed. The superstar then went on to say that the tournament organizers were “corrupt” and the cup itself was “fixed for Brazil” to win.
The former Ballon d'Or holder avoided the medal ceremony and gave his reasons as "We don't have to be part of this corruption,” “They have shown us a lack of respect throughout this tournament.” “Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don't allow people to enjoy football. They ruined it a bit.”
However, the South American Football body, CONMEBOL has served a three (3) month ban and fined the Argentine Super Star $50,000 for his remarks that came just after Argentina’s 2-1 win against Chile in the third-place playoff of the tournament in July.
The ban means Messi will miss Argentina's upcoming friendlies against Chile, Mexico and Germany in September and October.
Moreover, Messi has seven days to appeal Conmebol's decision but he’s already suspended from the first match of the South American World Cup qualifiers next March because of the red card, which he claims was undeserved, that he received against Chile.
