

Key Takeaways:
- Luis Suarez spat at a Seattle Sounders coach after Inter Miami’s 3-0 defeat in the Leagues Cup final at Lumen Field
- The 38-year-old forward apologised publicly, admitting his actions stemmed from “tension and frustration”
- Suarez now awaits possible suspension as Inter Miami compete for an MLS Cup play-off place
Ugly Post-Match Scenes Overshadow Leagues Cup Final
The closing moments of Inter Miami’s 3-0 Leagues Cup final defeat to Seattle Sounders quickly dissolved into chaos last Saturday. Following the full-time whistle at Lumen Field, tensions flared between the two sides. Luis Suarez was seen grabbing Sounders midfielder Obed Vargas in the immediate aftermath, while Sergio Busquets appeared to throw a punch at the young midfielder. Tempers continued to escalate when Suarez engaged in a heated confrontation with a member of the Seattle coaching staff, during which he appeared to spit towards the staff member before being held back by teammates and opposition players. The incident cast a shadow over what had been a decisive victory for the Sounders.
Luis Suarez is the first one from Inter Miami to really break silence on the postgame events of this past Sunday.
Suarez apologizes for his actions, says they shouldn’t have happened, and adds he feels bad over what transpired.#InterMiamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/jRVtM3g560
— Franco Panizo (@FrancoPanizo) September 4, 2025
Suarez Admits Fault and Expresses Regret
Suarez has since addressed the altercation, issuing a public apology via social media. He acknowledged the gravity of the episode, describing his conduct as unacceptable and attributing it to the intense emotions in the aftermath of defeat. Suarez stated: “It was a moment of great tension and frustration, where right after the match things happened that shouldn’t have happened, but that doesn’t justify the reaction I had.
“I was wrong and I sincerely regret it. I feel bad about what happened, and I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to acknowledge it and apologise to everyone who felt hurt by what I did.”
The experienced striker reiterated his commitment to Inter Miami’s ongoing campaign, adding: “We know there’s still a lot of the season ahead, and we’re going to work together to achieve the successes that this club and all of its fans deserve.”
Scrutiny and Potential Consequences Amidst Play-Off Push
Suarez’ conduct in high-profile matches has repeatedly attracted controversy throughout his career, including previous lengthy bans for biting and involvement in a racism case at Liverpool. Saturday’s incident now raises the prospect of additional disciplinary measures, at a time when Inter Miami are vying to secure a place in the MLS Cup play-offs. Despite the apology, the striker is subject to formal review, and further scrutiny regarding his on-field behaviour appears inevitable.
Awaiting Disciplinary Decision as Inter Plan Ahead
Inter Miami currently await a decision from Major League Soccer and Leagues Cup authorities regarding any possible suspension for Suarez. The Uruguayan veteran has affirmed his intention to keep supporting Lionel Messi and the rest of the squad in pursuit of silverware. Inter Miami will next face Charlotte on Saturday, September 13, with Suarez’ eligibility potentially crucial as the Herons look to maintain their play-off ambitions.
Fixture | Date | Key Incident | Result |
---|---|---|---|
Inter Miami vs Seattle Sounders (Leagues Cup Final) | 31.08 | Suarez spat at Sounders coach after full-time | Seattle Sounders 3-0 Inter Miami |
Inter Miami vs Charlotte (MLS) | 13.08 | Potential absence of Suarez due to suspension | To be played |