Special MLS rule prevents Messi suspension at Inter Miami

Messi avoids suspension for Inter Miami's match against New England Revolution thanks to MLS's Good Behavior Incentive rule, which allows players to clear yellow cards after five consecutive matches without discipline.

Lionel Messi will play for Inter Miami against New England Revolution despite accumulating five yellow cards this season, which would normally trigger an automatic one-match suspension. The 39-year-old Argentine received yellows against Colorado Rapids, Orlando City, Nashville, Atlanta United, and FC Cincinnati.

MLS's Good Behavior Incentive rule allows players to avoid suspension when they go five consecutive matches without receiving a yellow card, red card, or other disciplinary sanction. The rule can reduce a player's total card count to zero but not below it, and can be used up to three times per season. Messi qualifies because he is not classified as a habitual offender.

Inter Miami currently sits third in the MLS standings after 32 matches.