Mexican referee banned for demanding Messi’s autograph

Mexican referee banned for demanding Messi’s autograph

Mexican referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava has been handed a six-month ban from officiating in Concacaf competitions after requesting an autograph from Lionel Messi.

The incident occurred on February 19, following Inter Miami CF’s 1-0 victory over Sporting Kansas City in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Ortiz Nava approached Messi after the final whistle, seeking an autograph for a family member with special needs.

Concacaf, the governing body for football in North and Central America, launched disciplinary action, stating that the referee’s actions violated its Code of Conduct for match officials.

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In an official statement, the organization confirmed Ortiz Nava’s suspension, noting that he had acknowledged his mistake, apologized, and accepted the penalty.

Despite the ban from Concacaf competitions, Ortiz Nava will continue officiating in Mexico’s top league, Liga MX, where he recently refereed a match between Puebla and Club Tijuana.

 

Mexican referee banned for demanding Messi’s autograph