A Mexican referee has landed himself in hot water after breaking a major rule, asking Lionel Messi for an autograph.
Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava, a well-respected official in Mexico’s Liga MX, has been suspended for six months after his post-match request violated Concacaf’s strict code of conduct for referees.
What Happened?
The incident took place after Inter Miami’s 1-0 win over Sporting Kansas City in the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Following the final whistle, Ortiz Nava approached Messi, reportedly asking for an autograph on behalf of a family member with special needs.
However, Concacaf rules clearly prohibit match officials from engaging in such interactions with players to maintain fairness and neutrality. As a result, the governing body wasted no time in handing down a six-month ban.
Referee is 'BANNED for six months' after asking Lionel Messi for his autograph during match ❌✍️ pic.twitter.com/FTJ2p9LKzA
— Mail Sport (@MailSport) February 26, 2025
Concacaf’s Response
Concacaf released an official statement confirming the suspension, stressing that while Ortiz Nava’s intentions may have been personal, his actions were still considered unprofessional.
“The referee’s conduct did not align with the Confederation’s Code of Conduct for match officials,” a spokesperson told ESPN. “Ortiz Nava has acknowledged his mistake, apologised, and accepted the disciplinary action.”
The Fallout
Ortiz Nava will now be sidelined from officiating in all Concacaf competitions for the next six months. The organisation also issued a stern warning that any further breaches of conduct could result in even harsher penalties, possibly an indefinite ban.
While initial reports suggested the referee had requested Messi’s match-worn shirt, it was later clarified that the request was for an autograph. Regardless, Concacaf remains firm on its regulations, ensuring match officials maintain strict professionalism on and off the pitch.
Lessons Learned
This unusual case serves as a reminder that even the world’s biggest football stars remain off-limits to referees in official matches—no matter how tempting it may be to grab a quick autograph from one of the greatest players of all time.
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