Luis Suárez has been suspended for Inter Miami's crucial playoff match against Nashville SC on Saturday, following a review of an off-ball incident during Game 2 of their first-round series. The MLS Disciplinary Committee handed down the one-match suspension and an undisclosed fine after determining that Suárez kicked Nashville defender Andy Najar in the 71st minute of Miami's 2-1 loss in Nashville.

The incident, which occurred as the two players ran in the box, was not called as a foul during the game, and no card was issued. However, the MLS Disciplinary Committee can review such incidents and impose penalties if deemed necessary. The committee, comprised of former MLS players, a former coach, and a former referee, made the ruling based on its guidelines for post-match reviews, which allow for action when officials see an incident but do not issue a red card.

This is not the first time this season that Suárez has faced disciplinary action from the league. In September, he was suspended for three MLS regular-season games and given a six-game ban from the 2026 Leagues Cup for his behavior following the Leagues Cup final against the Seattle Sounders. Suárez was seen grabbing a Sounders player by the neck and later spitting on a Seattle security official. He later apologized for his actions, expressing remorse.

The absence of Suárez is a significant blow to Inter Miami as they face Nashville in a decisive Game 3 in Fort Lauderdale. Inter Miami is aiming to avoid a first-round playoff exit for the second consecutive season. Suárez, the 38-year-old Uruguayan forward, has a history of controversial behavior on the field. He has been suspended multiple times for biting opponents and once for racial abuse, an allegation he denied.

Adding to the disciplinary actions, Inter Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined an undisclosed amount for violating the league's policy regarding simulation/embellishment in the 4th minute of the same match.