Referee Suspended for Asking Lionel Messi for Autograph
A surprising turn of events has unfolded in the Concacaf Champions League, involving a Mexican referee and the legendary Lionel Messi. Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava, a 36-year-old referee, has been suspended for six months by Concacaf for asking Messi for his autograph after a match.
The incident occurred at the end of Inter Miami’s 1-0 victory over Sporting Kansas City, where Ortiz Nava approached Messi and requested his shirt and autograph. What’s notable is that the referee’s intention was not to keep the memorabilia for himself, but rather to give it to a family member with special needs.
Messi, known for his kindness and generosity, agreed to the request and handed over his shirt. However, Concacaf has deemed Ortiz Nava’s actions as unprofessional and worthy of suspension.
The suspension has sparked debate among football fans, with some arguing that the referee’s actions were harmless and others believing that it was indeed unprofessional.
What do you think? Should the referee have been suspended for asking Messi for his autograph? Share your thoughts in the comments below!