{
  "id": 2543608,
  "title": "MLS: Lionel Messi fined for slapping Sullivan",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/mls-lionel-messi-fined-for-slapping-sullivan",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-22T08:50:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Post Nigeria",
    "slug": "daily-post-nigeria",
    "url": "https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/22/mls-lionel-messi-fined-for-slapping-sullivan/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Inter Miami's Lionel Messi has been fined for slapping Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan during a 2-2 draw. Both Messi and Ian Fray were penalized, as Fray also made contact with an opponent's neck. The incident occurred after the two players exchanged words. Sullivan also participated in a fight that led to red cards for Yannick Bright and Cavan Sullivan. However, MLS has rescinded the red card and one-game suspension given to Cavan Sullivan, as the Independent Review Panel unanimously overturned the decision.",
  "summary": "Inter Miami superstar, Lionel Messi has been fined for slapping Philadelphia Union’s Quinn Sullivan on the head. Both Messi and Ian Fray were fined undisclosed amounts, as the latter also made contact with an opponent’s neck during the 2-2 draw. This was confirmed by MLS on Friday. Messi scored one goal and provided an assist for […] MLS: Lionel Messi fined for slapping Sullivan",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}