Lionel Messi has officially extended his contract with Inter Miami, securing his presence with the Major League Soccer club until 2026. This agreement, which took months to finalize, was announced just before the club’s playoff opener against Nashville.
Details of Messi’s Contract Extension
The three-year deal will last through the 2028 season. Messi’s continued involvement is significant as Inter Miami prepares to move into a new stadium, located near Miami International Airport, next year.
Impact on Soccer and Inter Miami
Messi’s decision to remain in Miami is beneficial not only for the team but also for Major League Soccer (MLS) as a whole. Recently, he won the MLS MVP award and is the frontrunner to win it again this season. If he achieves this, he will join Preki as the only player to win consecutive MVP titles in the league’s history.
Impressive Performance Statistics
- Golden Boot winner: 29 goals this season.
- 19 assists, totaling 48 goal contributions—just shy of the MLS record of 49.
- A remarkable achievement with multiple goals in five consecutive games.
- Set a new league record for 10 multigoal games in a season.
At 38 years old, this extension may likely be Messi’s final contract as a professional athlete. He began his illustrious career at age 17 with Barcelona. As he prepares for a busy schedule ahead, including the World Cup in June and July 2026, Messi’s commitment to Inter Miami brings excitement to fans.
Future of Inter Miami and Fellow Players
Messi’s reunion with former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets has added depth to the team, although both are set to retire at the end of the current season. Luis Suarez’s future remains uncertain, but with Messi committed, Inter Miami’s composition will evolve as they approach 2026.
Popularity and Influence
Messi’s presence in the MLS has significantly increased the global popularity of Inter Miami. His iconic pink No. 10 jersey has been the league’s best seller since he joined. Off the field, Messi is expanding his business empire, even featuring in a Super Bowl commercial last year, further enhancing his influence in the U.S.
With Messi extending his contract until 2026, fans can expect exciting developments in American soccer as he continues to shape the future of the sport in the region.
