Argentina forward, Lionel Messi has been suspended from his country’s next three matches and given a $50,000 (£41,000) fine by CONMEBOL for his controversial comments made during the Copa America.
Messi accused South America’s football governing body of corruption after the red card he got in Argentina’s 2-1 third-place playoff win against Chile.
The Barcelona star will now miss friendly matches against Chile (September 5), Mexico (September 10) and Germany (October 10) – plus the one-match World Cup qualifying ban for being sent off.
Argentina defeated Chile, after losing the previous two Copa America finals against them.
Sergio Aguero and Paulo Dybala both netted but Messi was red-carded at 37 minutes, after attempting to aim a headbutt at Gary Medel during an argument with the Chile midfielder. Medel was sent off too.
Everyone thought that was it with the punishment until CONMEBOL released a statement describing his comments as “unacceptable” and representing “a lack of respect”.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate