Lionel Messi has officially extended his stay with Inter Miami, signing a new three-year contract that keeps him at the club until the end of the 2028 MLS season. The agreement ends months of speculation about his future and ensures that the world’s most influential footballer remains at the heart of Miami’s growing soccer legacy.
A Perfect Timing for Inter Miami’s Next Chapter
The timing of Messi’s new deal couldn’t be more fitting. Inter Miami’s much-anticipated new stadium — Miami Freedom Park, a 25,000-seat state-of-the-art complex — is set to open in 2026. The club hopes Messi will be the first player to lead the team onto its new home turf, symbolizing a new era for both the franchise and Major League Soccer.
Messi’s Impact Since Arriving in South Florida
Since his arrival in July 2023, Messi has completely transformed Inter Miami and the MLS landscape:
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71 goals and 44 assists across all competitions.
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Guided the team to its first-ever major trophies, including the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
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Crowned MLS MVP in 2024 and is the leading favorite to win it again in 2025 — which would make him the first back-to-back MVP in league history.
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Won the 2025 Golden Boot with 29 goals, despite missing matches due to injuries and international duty with Argentina.
Messi’s performances have not only drawn record-breaking crowds but also elevated MLS’ global visibility, with Miami becoming a must-watch team across continents.
The Business and Legacy Impact
Inter Miami’s front office has long been preparing for this extension. The club’s new stadium, located near Miami International Airport, has already seen a surge in season-ticket deposits and sponsorship interest — largely due to Messi’s presence. His commitment through 2028 all but guarantees continued commercial success and international attention for MLS.
What Lies Ahead
As Inter Miami enters the postseason as the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, Messi’s leadership will once again be pivotal. The first game of their best-of-three playoff series against Nashville kicks off this Friday, with fans eager to see if Messi can guide the team to another historic run.
With his new deal secured and Miami Freedom Park on the horizon, Lionel Messi’s legacy in American soccer is only growing stronger. The 38-year-old continues to redefine what it means to be an icon — not just in Europe or Argentina, but now, firmly, in the heart of Major League Soccer.
