Inter Miami star Luis Suárez suspended by MLS for spitting on opponent staff member

Inter Miami FC star Luis Suárez has been suspended for three games by MLS after he spit on a Seattle Sounders staff member during a game last month, the league announced Monday.

The incident occurred during Miami’s 3-0 loss to Seattle in the Leagues Cup final on Aug. 31. Both teams became involved in a physical dispute on the field postgame, including shoving and punches thrown. Video of the incident shows Suárez arguing with Sounders head of security Gene Ramirez and spitting on him before teammate Oscar Ustari intervenes between the two.

Suárez is suspended for three MLS regular season games, according to a news release from the league. He will serve his suspension on Sept. 13 at Charlotte FC, Sept. 16 against Seattle, and Sept. 20 against D.C. United.

Suárez was also previously suspended for six Leagues Cup matches for spitting on Ramirez.

At the same time, Seattle Sounders staff member Steven Lenhart had his on-field credentials revoked by MLS for his role in the incident. He will only be permitted in public seating areas during Sounders home games and cannot be on or near the field, the locker rooms or tunnel, according to the release. A former forward for MLS’ San Jose Earthquakes, Lenhart was working with Seattle as a mental coach, according to reports. His credential access will be reviewed ahead of the 2026 season, MLS said.

In addition, the Sounders have been fined an undisclosed amount by MLS for misappropriation of credentials.

Inter Miami’s Tomás Avilés and Sergio Busquets also received three- and two-game Leagues Cup suspensions, respectively, for throwing punches during the altercation. Neither player was suspended by MLS for regular season games.