Controversy surrounded the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 match between Inter Miami and Sporting Kansas City. After the final whistle, Lionel Messi was approached by Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava, the Mexican referee who served as the match’s principal referee, who asked for his autograph. Television cameras caught this act, which infuriated Sporting Kansas City’s administration.
“We reported the incident to MLS and CONCACAF following Wednesday’s game versus Inter miami. We anticipate that CONCACAF will conduct a comprehensive investigation and take the necessary action,” the club said.
In response to the complaint, CONCACAF declared the referee’s behavior intolerable. “The referee’s actions are inconsistent with the CONCACAF referee code of ethics and current protocols for such demands. The referee accepted the disciplinary measures imposed by CONCACAF, expressed regret for the incident, and admitted his error,” the organization said.
Other referees received a warning from CONCACAF as well. Details on Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava’s punishments have not yet been made public.
It’s important to remember that Sporting Kansas City vs. Inter Miami took place in bitterly cold weather (down to -17 degrees). Because Lionel Messi scored the game-winning goal, Inter Miami won 1-0.
