Inter Miami forward Luis Suárez reacts during a MLS match. Photo by Getty Images via ESPN.
Credit: Getty Images via ESPN
Luis Suárez has been handed an additional three-game MLS suspension for spitting on a Seattle Sounders staff member following Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup final defeat, adding to his existing six-game tournament ban.
Luis Suarez Receives Additional Three-Game MLS Suspension After Spitting on Seattle Staff
Luis Suárez will miss three crucial MLS matches after receiving an additional suspension for spitting on Seattle Sounders head of security Gene Ramirez following Inter Miami’s 3-0 defeat in the Leagues Cup final on August 31, 2025. MLS confirmed the three-game ban on September 8, targeting matches against Charlotte FC, Seattle Sounders, and D.C. United between September 13-20.
The Uruguayan striker now faces dual punishments for the same incident, with the Leagues Cup Disciplinary Committee having already imposed a separate six-game ban applicable to future tournament competitions. This additional MLS league suspension demonstrates the severity with which authorities view the post-match altercation that erupted after Inter Miami’s disappointing final performance against Seattle.
Suárez publicly apologized on social media, acknowledging the incident occurred during “a moment of much tension and frustration” while expressing sincere regret for his actions. His apology statement emphasized that “I made a mistake and sincerely apologize… It’s not the image I want to give in front of my family… nor my club,” as Inter Miami condemned the behavior through an official statement.
The disciplinary fallout extended beyond Suárez, with Seattle Sounders mental-skills coach Steven Lenhart having his game-day credentials revoked for the remainder of the season due to inappropriate involvement in the melee. Meanwhile, Sergio Busquets received only Leagues Cup sanctions for his role in the altercation, highlighting MLS’s focus on Suárez as the primary offender requiring additional league-specific punishment.
Inter Miami must now navigate a critical mid-September period without their experienced striker, potentially affecting their tactical approach and attacking options during crucial league fixtures. No appeals have been filed against the suspension, with the club accepting the disciplinary measures while the extent of any internal sanctions remains undisclosed.
