Marco Antonio Ortiz has been banned from officiating for six months after an incident involving Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi.
Mexican referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava has been handed a six-month ban from officiating in Concacaf competitions after a surprising incident involving Lionel Messi.
Ortiz Nava approached Messi after Inter Miami CF’s 1-0 win over Sporting Kansas City on February 19, asking for the superstar’s autograph for a family member with special needs.
Concacaf swiftly opened disciplinary proceedings against Ortiz Nava, citing a breach of the Confederation’s Code of Conduct for match officials.
 "Lionel Messi: Referee BANNED for 6 months after unacceptable behaviour 1")
In their opening game of the MLS, Lionel Messi bagged 2 assists to help Inter Miami to a 2-2 draw against New York City FC.
The 36-year-old referee acknowledged his mistake, apologized, and accepted the disciplinary action.
According to ESPN, Ortiz Nava will continue to officiate in Mexico’s Liga MX during his ban, he’s been put on notice that a reoccurrence could attract more severe punishment.
Lionel Messi in action for Inter Miami || Imago
Meanwhile, Messi was back to his best setting up two goals in Inter Miami’s MLS season opener against New York City.
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