Messi Fined, Banned For Three Months

Argentina and Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has been banned from international football for three months after claiming the Copa America was “corrupt”.

According to BBC, Messi was also fined $50,000 (£41,121) by Conmebol, the South American Football Confederation.

The five-time Ballon d’ Or winner has seven days to appeal Conmebol’s decision to suspend him.

The ban means Messi will miss Argentina’s upcoming friendlies against Chile, Mexico and Germany in September and October.

Argentina’s qualifying campaign for the 2022 World Cup begins in March 2020.

Following Argentina’s 2-0 semi-final defeat by hosts Brazil, the Argentine Football Association complained about “serious and gross refereeing errors”.

In response, Conmebol said accusations questioning the integrity of the Copa America were “unfounded” and “represent a lack of respect”.

The 32-year old was sent off in Argentina’s 2-1 third-place play-off win over Chile and later said the “cup was fixed for Brazil”.

“We don’t have to be part of this corruption,” Messi said. “They have shown us a lack of respect throughout this tournament.

“Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit.”