Lionel Messi: Referee BANNED for 6 months after unacceptable behaviour

Mexican referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava has been handed a six-month ban from officiating in Concacaf competitions after a surprising incident involving Lionel Messi.

Ortiz Nava approached Messi after Inter Miami CF's 1-0 win over Sporting Kansas City on February 19, asking for the superstar's autograph for a family member with special needs.

Concacaf swiftly opened disciplinary proceedings against Ortiz Nava, citing a breach of the Confederation's Code of Conduct for match officials.

The 36-year-old referee acknowledged his mistake, apologized, and accepted the disciplinary action.

According to ESPN, Ortiz Nava will continue to officiate in Mexico's Liga MX during his ban, he's been put on notice that a reoccurrence could attract more severe punishment.

Meanwhile, Messi was back to his best setting up two goals in Inter Miami's MLS season opener against New York City.