MLS Further Suspends Inter Miami Midfielder Yannick Bright

Major League Soccer has handed Inter Miami CF midfielder Yannick Bright an additional one-match suspension following a violation of the league’s Non-Discrimination Policy during a match against the Colorado Rapids on April 18.

Bright had already served an initial suspension during Inter Miami’s April 22 fixture against Real Salt Lake after receiving a red card for the incident. However, MLS confirmed that further disciplinary action was warranted, extending his absence to a second match. The 21-year-old will now miss Inter Miami’s upcoming clash with the New England Revolution on April 25.

In addition to the suspension, Bright is required to participate in a restorative practices program, a measure the league uses to address incidents involving discriminatory conduct. MLS stated that its decision-making process takes into account several factors, including a player’s willingness to accept responsibility, cooperate with the investigation, and engage in efforts to repair the harm caused.

Bright, a rising talent within Inter Miami’s squad, has quickly established himself as a regular presence in midfield. Born in Milan to an Ivorian father and Italian mother, the defensive midfielder joined the club after being selected 15th overall in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft following a standout collegiate career at the University of New Hampshire.

During his time in college, Bright earned All-American honors three times and was twice named a semifinalist for the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy. Since turning professional, he has continued his upward trajectory, playing a role in Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Cup-winning campaign and securing a contract extension that keeps him with the club through the 2028 season.

So far in the 2026 campaign, Bright has made nine appearances across all competitions, logging over 700 minutes in midfield. While he has yet to register a goal or assist this season, his contributions have been key to Inter Miami’s structure and defensive balance.

The suspension represents a setback for both Bright and Inter Miami as the team navigates a busy early-season schedule, but the league’s firm stance underscores its ongoing commitment to enforcing its policies on discrimination and player conduct.