Lionel Messi has officially extended his contract with Inter Miami, committing to the Major League Soccer team until 2028. The announcement, made on Thursday, is seen as a significant boost for both the club and the league as the legendary Argentine forward continues his illustrious career at 38 years of age. Previously, he had indicated that Inter Miami might be his final stop in professional football, but he has not shown any intent to retire and asserts that age will not dictate his decisions moving forward.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham expressed enthusiasm about Messi’s extended presence, emphasizing their goal of attracting top talent to the franchise and cited Messi’s unwavering commitment to winning. This season, Messi has made a substantial impact by leading the league in goals with 29, helping Inter Miami secure a solid third place in the Eastern Conference. The team is gearing up to face Nashville SC in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs, commencing Friday.
Messi’s signing with Inter Miami sparked interest in MLS upon his arrival in 2023, a pivotal moment for soccer in North America ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The financial impact of his signing has been marked; Miami’s valuation doubled to $1.2 billion since 2022, with Forbes ranking it as the second most valuable team in MLS.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber remarked that Messi’s decision to join MLS has been transformative not only for Inter Miami but for soccer in the United States as a whole. He noted that Messi’s global stardom has brought unprecedented attention to the league.
While Messi has faced minor disciplinary actions in the league, including a recent fine from an altercation during a match against New York City FC, these incidents highlight the importance of maintaining professionalism as the league continues to grow. Inter Miami fans can look forward to the anticipation surrounding Messi’s performance in the upcoming MLS playoffs and beyond.
In a positive light, Messi’s commitment to Inter Miami symbolizes hope for the development and popularity of soccer in North America. As he continues to compete at a high level, there remains an optimistic outlook for the future of the sport in the region, particularly as players like Messi pave the way for its growth and acceptance in the cultural landscape.