Barcelona star Lionel Messi has been banned for four games by FIFA.

Messi is suspended for four matches after insulting assistant referee Dewson da Silva during Argentina's 1-0 win over Chile in World Cup qualifying.

The decision was taken surprisingly quickly ahead of the game between Bolivia and Argentina on Tuesday night, which Messi is now banned for.

He also misses clashes with Uruguay, Venezuela and Peru.

Dewson da Silva denied having heard any offensive language. “I didn't see anything or see anything in relation to this."