Lionel Messi facing two year ban after 'corruption' comments at Copa America

Leo Messi’s incredible outburst after his team’s win to Chile for the third place playoff at the Copa America might cost him a two-year ban according to reports.

Messi was left fuming at the CONMEBOL organisation and refused to collect his third-place medal after accusing the referee of favouring Brazil in their semi-final loss.

The Barcelona star was vocal about the referee’s influence on the match in which Brazil won 2-0.

“The Copa [America] is set up for Brazil. Hopefully the referees and the VAR won’t influence things and they let Peru compete, but I think that’s unlikely,” he claimed.

Messi went on to allege “corruption” was getting in the way of the tournament.

"There was lack of respect toward us during this Copa América," he said.

"We could have done better, but they didn't let us make it to the final. Corruption and the referees are not letting the fans enjoy football. This is ruining football."

When asked if he feared being suspended for his comments, Messi said "the truth needed to be told."

But reports from Spanish site AS claim if CONMEBOL decide to act Messi could be facing a two-year ban for his comments.

The report suggests any comments criticising the governing body or its personnel can carry the lengthy ban.

If CONMEBOL took action, Messi could potentially miss qualification for the Qatar World Cup and Copa America 2020 held in Argentina and Colombia.

With AP