Austin, July 24, 2025
News Summary
The MLS All-Star Game will occur on Wednesday, July 23, at Q2 Stadium in Austin, featuring a match between MLS All-Stars and Liga MX All-Stars. As the league celebrates its 30th season, the competitive history shows MLS with 9 wins against international teams. Although two key players, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, will miss the event, the game is expected to significantly boost the local economy by generating over $20 million. Fans can watch the excitement through various streaming platforms.
Austin, Texas – The MLS All-Star Game is set to kick off on Wednesday, July 23, at 8 p.m. CT, featuring a matchup between the MLS All-Stars and the Liga MX All-Stars from Mexico. This highly anticipated event will take place at Q2 Stadium in Austin, marking the city’s inaugural hosting of the MLS All-Star Game.
In its historical context, the MLS All-Stars maintain a competitive record of 9 wins and 8 losses against international club opponents in this friendly format. The match promises excitement as the MLS celebrates its 30th season with the 29th edition of the All-Star game. Fans can catch the action through the MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app as well as on streaming platforms such as DirecTV, Comcast Xfinity, and Amazon Prime Video.
Despite the excitement surrounding the event, two high-profile players, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba from Inter Miami CF, will not be participating. Both were voted onto the All-Star roster, yet MLS officials confirmed their absence as they remain in South Florida. There is a possibility that they could face a one-game suspension for their decision to skip the exhibition match, though immediate sanctions from MLS have yet to be enforced.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber has indicated that the league is currently assessing the situation regarding potential penalties for Messi and Alba. The players’ heavy involvement in Inter Miami’s recent schedule, where they participated in nine games within a span of 35 days, was cited as the reason for their absence from the All-Star event. Moreover, with Inter Miami competing in 34 matches across all competitions this season, the physical demands have become evident.
Messi and Alba were chosen for the All-Star roster due to popular demand and both have previously engaged in All-Star events. The All-Star game, while celebrated in the U.S., is somewhat less recognized globally, with 14 out of the 30 team members originating from outside the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
In terms of competitive standing, MLS has secured two victories in the last three meetings against Liga MX within the All-Star format. However, Inter Miami faces a busy schedule ahead, including a match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 26.
Beyond the sporting aspect, the MLS All-Star Game is projected to generate over $20 million for the Austin economy, benefiting local businesses and promoting transportation traffic in the area. Despite the news of Messi’s absence, merchants in Austin have reported increased sales, particularly in Messi jerseys, indicating a strong interest in the star player.
This event underscores Austin’s growing reputation as a sports city and its emergence as a significant hub for soccer in the United States.
FAQ
When is the MLS All-Star Game?
The MLS All-Star Game is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, at 8 p.m. CT.
Where will the game take place?
The game will be held at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas.
Will Lionel Messi be playing in the All-Star Game?
No, Lionel Messi will not participate in the All-Star Game despite being voted onto the roster.
What is the economic impact of the MLS All-Star Game?
The event is estimated to generate over $20 million for local businesses in Austin.
How many All-Star Games has MLS played?
This year marks the 29th MLS All-Star Game, celebrating the league’s 30th season.
What is the record of MLS All-Stars against international opponents?
The MLS All-Stars have a record of 9 wins and 8 losses against international club opponents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
2025 MLS All-Star Game Atmosphere Thrives Amid Messi’s Absence
Brad Stuver: The Rise of an Austin FC Legend
Additional Resources
- USA Today: Messi MLS All-Star Game
- Wikipedia: MLS All-Star Game
- KXAN: Messi to Skip MLS All-Star Game
- Google Search: Lionel Messi MLS All Star Game
- MLS Soccer: MLS vs Liga MX Rivalry
- Google Scholar: MLS All Star Game
- CBS Austin: MLS All-Star Economic Boost
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lionel Messi
- The Statesman: Will Messi Play?
- Google News: Lionel Messi MLS All Star Game
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
