Messi banned for three months by CONMEBOL
South American football governing body CONMEBOL has suspended Argentinean star Lionel Messi for three months and fined $50,000 for his rant against CONMEBOL after their 2-1 win over Chile for the third place in the Copa America 2019.
Messi claimed Argentina were treated unfairly at the Copa America and boycotted the medal ceremony to protest the refereeing and corruption. When asked if he feared being suspended for his comments, he said "The truth needed to be told."
The 32-year-old will not be able to play for Argentina in matches in September against Chile and Mexico, plus another two in October versus Germany and another team that is yet to be picked. However, Messi and Argentina can still appeal the decision. Additionally, Messi will miss the first match of the South American World Cup qualifiers in March because of the red card he received against Chile in an incident with Gary Medel.
