Major League Soccer (MLS) has officially handed Luis Suárez a six-match suspension following an explosive spitting incident during a heated league match on Wednesday night.
The veteran Uruguayan striker who currently plays for Inter Miami CF was caught on camera deliberately spitting at an opponent during a late game altercation.
The controversial moment occurred in the 82nd minute of the match against Orlando City SC when tensions boiled over after a rough tackle on Suárez.
Video footage reviewed by the MLS Disciplinary Committee clearly showed the 37-year old striker confronting Orlando defender Rodrigo Schlegel before spitting in his direction.
“Luis Suárez has been suspended for six matches and fined an undisclosed amount for violent conduct and unsportsmanlike behavior during the match between Inter Miami and Orlando City.
“The league has zero tolerance for actions that violate the principles of fair play and sportsmanship,” part of statement.
Suárez will miss crucial matches in the race for playoff spots including clashes against New York Red Bulls, Atlanta United and Columbus Crew.
This is not the first time Suárez has been involved in a controversial incident.
During his career, he has faced multiple suspensions most famously for biting opponents during his stints with Liverpool, Uruguay and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
The incident has divided MLS fans. Some supporters believe the six-match ban is justified given Suárez’s history while others argue that the punishment is excessive.
Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions with many calling for the league to take consistent action on violent conduct.
Inter Miami will now have to rely on young forwards like Leonardo Campana and Robert Taylor to lead the attack in Suárez’s absence.
Suárez will be eligible to return in mid-October, just in time for the final weeks of the regular season a period that could make or break Inter Miami’s title aspirations.
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