Messi confronts MLS commissioner Garber after Inter Miami's Campeones Cup triumph

Lionel Messi was seen on video confronting MLS commissioner Don Garber in a pointed post-match exchange after Inter Miami defeated Cruz Azul 2-0 to claim the Campeones Cup on Wednesday. The nature of the conversation has not been disclosed.

Footage from after the final whistle showed Messi approaching Garber, gesturing at him with his finger and speaking directly to him before walking away. He then returned and repeated the gesture in a second exchange. A further clip showed both men pointing at each other as they talked. MLS declined to comment on the incident, and Inter Miami did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The confrontation came on a landmark night for Messi personally. His goal in the victory was the 100th he has scored for Inter Miami since joining the club, a milestone that arrived in the same match as another piece of silverware.

The Campeones Cup win adds to a growing trophy haul for the Miami club since Messi’s arrival three years ago. Inter Miami won the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and the MLS Cup in 2025, making the Campeones Cup their fourth major honour in that span.

What prompted Messi’s direct approach to the league’s most senior official remains unclear, with both parties staying silent on the matter.