Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has officially signed a contract extension with Inter Miami CF, committing his future to the Major League Soccer (MLS) club until December 2028. The agreement, which was formally approved by the MLS board this week, cements Messi’s long-term presence in American football and reinforces Inter Miami’s position as one of the league’s most influential clubs.
The announcement, made on Thursday, follows reports last week that Messi and Inter Miami’s management had reached a verbal agreement to extend his contract. With all formalities now completed, the club has secured the services of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner for at least three more seasons.
Messi, who turns 38 in June 2025, joined Inter Miami in July 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). His arrival marked one of the most significant moments in MLS history — a move that drew worldwide attention and transformed both the club’s image and the league’s commercial reach.
Since his debut, Messi’s impact has been profound. He has not only lifted the quality of play within the team but has also driven unprecedented levels of fan engagement across North America. Stadiums have sold out weeks in advance wherever he plays, television viewership has soared globally, and merchandise sales have reached record highs.
Club co-owner David Beckham, who played a key role in bringing Messi to Miami, expressed his delight at the renewal. “Lionel has changed the face of football in America. His professionalism, passion, and dedication continue to inspire both our players and fans. Extending his contract is a proud moment for Inter Miami and for the growth of the MLS,” Beckham said in a statement released by the club.
Messi’s influence on Inter Miami’s trajectory cannot be overstated. Upon joining, he helped the club win its first-ever Leagues Cup title in August 2023, scoring ten goals in seven matches during the tournament. His performances reignited hope among supporters and elevated the team’s global standing.
Off the pitch, Messi’s arrival has brought immense commercial benefits. Inter Miami’s social media following skyrocketed from under two million to over fifty million across platforms within a year. Sponsorship deals have multiplied, and ticket prices have surged due to overwhelming demand. The Argentine superstar’s partnership with the MLS has also drawn more international broadcasters and corporate sponsors, further solidifying the league’s status as an emerging global football market.
The new deal is seen as part of a broader strategy by Inter Miami to continue building a strong, competitive team around Messi. Club president Jorge Mas emphasized that the focus remains on creating a sustainable sporting project capable of long-term success. “Lionel is more than a player — he’s the cornerstone of our vision. With his leadership, we are confident in our ability to compete for major titles and inspire a new generation of footballers in the United States,” Mas stated.
The extension also ensures that Messi’s influence on American football will extend well into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Analysts believe his continued presence in MLS could have a lasting impact on how football is perceived and supported in the region, especially with the world’s biggest tournament returning to North American soil for the first time in over three decades.
Messi’s connection with American audiences has deepened since his move. Beyond his performances, he has embraced life in Miami with his family, frequently seen attending community events and youth football programs. His humility and accessibility have resonated strongly with fans, further enhancing his legacy as one of the most admired figures in global sport.
In a brief statement released through the club, Messi expressed gratitude for the continued trust placed in him by Inter Miami and the MLS. “From the first day I arrived, the support has been incredible,” he said. “This city, this club, and the fans have made me feel at home. I’m happy to continue this journey and to keep building something special here in Miami.”
The deal reportedly includes performance-related bonuses and ambassadorial responsibilities that will keep Messi involved in the club’s development even beyond his playing years. While financial details were not publicly disclosed, insiders suggest it remains one of the most lucrative contracts in MLS history, aligning with Messi’s stature as a global sports icon.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber welcomed the extension, describing Messi as a “transformational figure” for the league. “When Messi arrived, he didn’t just come to play football — he came to elevate the sport in our region. His continued commitment to Inter Miami and MLS represents an extraordinary chapter in the growth of soccer in North America,” Garber said.
Football analysts also note that Messi’s presence has encouraged other elite players to consider moves to the MLS, transforming perceptions of the league as a viable destination for world-class talent. Over the past year, stars such as Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba — all former Barcelona teammates — have joined Inter Miami, creating a reunion that has brought a touch of European flair to the American game.
Under manager Gerardo “Tata” Martino, the club has become one of the most talked-about teams in global football. Martino, who previously coached both Messi and the Argentina national team, has emphasized that the focus remains on maintaining balance between entertainment and competitiveness. “Lionel gives us belief and identity,” he said. “His commitment pushes everyone to raise their level. Having him here through 2028 is a massive boost.”
Inter Miami’s management has also hinted at future infrastructure projects, including the development of a state-of-the-art stadium complex and youth academy designed to nurture local talent. The initiative aims to leverage Messi’s influence to inspire the next generation of American footballers and create pathways to professional success.
As the club looks ahead, fans and analysts alike are already speculating on whether Messi could finish his illustrious career in Miami. While retirement remains a distant topic, many believe his extended stay could see him transition into a mentoring or ambassadorial role, continuing to shape the sport’s future in the United States.
For now, the world’s attention remains firmly fixed on Fort Lauderdale, where Messi’s magic continues to redefine expectations for football in America. His renewed commitment not only reinforces his legacy as one of the game’s greatest ever players but also symbolizes the growing stature of Major League Soccer on the global stage.
Reported by Africa Live News Sports Desk
