Charlotte FC star fined for red card incident

Charlotte FC's Allan Saint-Maximin fined by MLS Disciplinary Committee.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee has fined Charlotte FC forward Allan Saint-Maximin for failing to leave the field in a timely manner in the 89th minute of Charlotte's match against Orlando City on October 31.

The incident occurred during Charlotte FC's 4-0 victory over Orlando City at home.

Saint-Maximin received a red card in the 89th minute, forcing him to exit the match early.

The league's disciplinary panel determined that the French winger did not comply with the requirement to leave the pitch promptly after being sent off.

The specific amount of the fine was not disclosed in the MLS Disciplinary Committee's announcement.

The ruling was issued following Matchday 34 of the 2026 Major League Soccer season.

Saint-Maximin is now suspended for Charlotte FC's next match as a result of the red card.

That match is against Inter Miami CF on November 7, 2026, at Nu Stadium in Miami, Florida.

The suspension means Saint-Maximin will not be available for selection when Charlotte FC faces Lionel Messi and Inter Miami.

Charlotte FC are currently in fifth place on the Eastern Conference points table.

The team has secured consecutive wins in their last two MLS matches.

They first defeated CF Montreal 4-0, with Liel Abada scoring a hat-trick in that contest.

Then they beat Orlando City by the same 4-0 scoreline, the match in which Saint-Maximin was sent off.

Inter Miami, led by head coach Kily Gonzalez, are in second place on the MLS points table.

Inter Miami are coming off a 2-1 victory against New England Revolution in their last league outing.

Lionel Messi scored the match-winning goal in that game.

In 30 MLS appearances this season, Messi has scored 26 goals.

The previous meeting between Inter Miami and Charlotte FC ended in a goalless draw.

In head-to-head history across 10 matches, Inter Miami have won four, Charlotte FC have won three, and three have ended in draws.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee also issued fines to two other players from Matchday 34.

Philadelphia Union midfielder Ben Bender was fined for violating the league's policy regarding simulation or embellishment in the 44th minute of Philadelphia's match against FC Cincinnati on October 31.

Philadelphia Union defender Nathan Harriel was fined for the same violation — simulation or embellishment — in the 46th minute of the same match against FC Cincinnati on October 31.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee operates under the league's authority to review incidents during matches and issue disciplinary actions including fines and suspensions.

The committee reviews video footage and referee reports to determine whether players have violated league rules.

Failing to leave the field in a timely manner after a red card is considered a violation of league protocol.

The rule exists to maintain order on the pitch and prevent delays that could escalate tensions between players or with officials.

Saint-Maximin joined Charlotte FC as a high-profile signing known for his dribbling ability and flair.

His absence against Inter Miami represents a significant loss for Charlotte FC's attacking options.

Charlotte FC will need to adjust their lineup for the Inter Miami match without Saint-Maximin available.

The team's predicted formation for the match includes goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, defenders Nathan Byrne, Patrick Agyemang, Adilson Kessler, and Andrew Toffolo, midfielders Ashley Westwood and Benjamin Diani, and attackers Liel Abada, Pep Biel, and Karol Swiderski, with striker Enzo Toklomati leading the line.

Inter Miami's predicted lineup includes goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, defenders Ryan Fray, Casemiro, Micael, and David Lujan, midfielders Rodrigo De Paul, Ian Bright, and Nicolas Segovia, and attackers Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and German Berterame.

Injury concerns for Inter Miami include Tadeo Allende and Mateo Silvetti, who are not expected to play due to injuries, and Fricio Caicedo, who may also sit out due to lack of fitness.

Charlotte FC will be without Nimfasha Berchimas, Will Clearly, and Aron John, who are not match fit.

The match kicks off at 5:00 PM ET on November 7, 2026, at Nu Stadium.

The MLS season is approaching its conclusion, with playoff positions at stake for both teams.

Charlotte FC's two-match winning streak has boosted their position in the Eastern Conference standings.

Inter Miami are looking to extend their winning run and solidify their hold on second place.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee's ruling against Saint-Maximin adds another layer of complexity to Charlotte FC's preparation for the crucial match.