Lionel Messi has officially signed a new contract with Inter Miami, extending his stay with the Major League Soccer club until the end of the 2028 MLS season, the team announced Thursday. The move cements the Argentine star’s long-term future in the United States as he continues to redefine American football.
Messi, now 38 years old, initially joined Miami in July 2023 as a Designated Player on a two-and-a-half-year deal. His arrival broke multiple MLS and team records, both in contract value and global visibility. The announcement of his extension came through a video showing the World Cup winner signing his new deal on the soon-to-be-completed pitch of Miami Freedom Park, the club’s upcoming home stadium.
Messi’s Commitment to Inter Miami
“It makes me really happy to stay here and continue with this project that has become a beautiful reality — playing at Miami Freedom Park,” Messi said in a statement. “Since I arrived, I’ve been very happy, and I’m excited for the day we finally play in our new home. It’s going to be something very special.”
Club co-owner Jorge Mas emphasized the club’s vision to build a legacy alongside Messi. “Leo signing through 2028 is an ode to our amazing city. We promised our fans that we would dream big, and we will continue building and dreaming together,” Mas said.
A New Era at Miami Freedom Park
Messi’s new deal coincides with Inter Miami’s upcoming move from Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to Miami Freedom Park, scheduled to open in 2026. Mas previously stated his goal for Messi to inaugurate the new stadium, symbolizing a new era for the club.
Co-owner David Beckham praised Messi’s impact both on and off the pitch: “We brought the best player ever to play the game to our city. It shows Leo’s commitment to Miami and his passion for the sport. His presence continues to inspire the next generation of footballers in North America.”
Messi’s Achievements in MLS
Since making his MLS debut, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has transformed Inter Miami into a dominant force. He guided the club to the 2023 Leagues Cup, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and helped them set the record for most points in a single MLS season.
Individually, Messi captured the 2024 MLS MVP and the 2025 Golden Boot, scoring 29 goals in 28 matches. He remains the frontrunner to win the 2025 MLS MVP award, which would make him the first player to win the title in consecutive years.
MLS commissioner Don Garber hailed Messi’s influence, calling his arrival a defining moment for the league: “When Lionel Messi made MLS his league of choice, it marked a turning point for the sport in North America. We’re thrilled he’s chosen to stay and continue his career here.”
The Future of Inter Miami’s Core Team
Messi’s contract renewal comes as teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba prepare to retire at the end of the 2025 season. Both will feature in the playoffs as they aim to win one final trophy with Messi before stepping away from football.
Meanwhile, Luis Suárez may also be nearing the end of his Miami chapter, with his contract set to expire after the 2025 campaign. Co-owner Mas noted that the club remains open to extending Suárez’s stay should he wish to continue.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami will face Nashville SC in the first round of the 2025 MLS playoffs at Chase Stadium, as Messi leads the team’s push for its first MLS Cup title.
With Messi’s signature secured through 2028, Inter Miami is poised to remain the most influential club in North America—uniting world-class talent, ambitious ownership, and a fan base eager to see history made at Miami Freedom Park.
