Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez faces turbulent weeks at Inter Miami after both MLS and the Leagues Cup handed down severe sanctions for his conduct in the final against the Seattle Sounders on August 31.

The 38-year-old forward, nicknamed El Pistolero, was cited by match officials for spitting at a member of Seattle’s coaching staff—an act that will now sideline him for multiple fixtures across domestic and international competition.

How many games will Suárez miss?

The Leagues Cup Disciplinary Committee issued an initial six-match suspension, ruling him out of the 2026 edition until the ban is fully served. In parallel, MLS added a three-match suspension, which Suárez must serve immediately in league play.

That means the veteran striker will be unavailable for Javier Mascherano in key MLS clashes against Charlotte FC, Seattle Sounders, and D.C. United, while also missing the entirety of the next joint MLS-Liga MX tournament.

A blow for Inter Miami

The absence comes at a difficult time for Inter Miami, who recently fell 3-0 to Seattle in the Leagues Cup final and must now reorganize their attack to stay near the top of the MLS standings.

Beyond the sporting setback, the suspension also tarnishes Suárez’s image. He arrived in Miami as one of the marquee international stars expected to support Lionel Messi in the team’s frontline.

What’s next for the ‘Pistolero’?

With the punishment confirmed, Suárez’s career enters another chapter of controversy. The forward had been crucial at different stages of the season, but now faces the challenge of maintaining match fitness after a prolonged spell on the sidelines.

Inter Miami knows his leadership and experience will be essential upon his return—but the disciplinary stain revives memories of the controversial episodes that have followed one of the most feared strikers of the 21st century.