Lionel Messi may be on the verge of extending his American soccer journey. The 37-year-old superstar joined Inter Miami in July 2023 and immediately transformed the club’s fortunes both on and off the field.
His current deal, however, is set to expire at the end of this year, prompting a wave of speculation over his future. But Inter Miami has been working diligently to secure an extension that would align with the club’s move to their new home, Miami Freedom Park, in time for the 2026 season.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Inter Miami and the legendary Argentine forward are close to finalizing a contract extension that would keep Messi in Major League Soccer beyond 2024.
“My hope has always been – and everything we’re doing – is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens,” Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas said during an interview with FDP Radio Miami.
That hope is shared by MLS, its commercial partners, and a global audience of fans. The prospect of Messi, widely considered one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, remaining in the United States offers enormous value to everyone involved.
From Apple’s streaming deal to Adidas’ long-standing MLS sponsorship, the ripple effects of Messi‘s continued presence in the league are significant.
2026 World Cup participation
From a broader perspective, Messi’s potential contract extension could also influence his international career.
FIFA and the Argentina national team would benefit immensely from his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Miami is among the host cities, and the possibility of Messi playing a World Cup match on the very pitch of his home stadium is a dream scenario for organizers and fans alike.
Although optimism is building, negotiations are still ongoing. Messi’s original deal with MLS was highly complex, involving unique revenue-sharing mechanisms and sponsorship incentives tied to league-wide agreements.
Extending such a deal will require careful attention to financial and structural details, especially as the league looks to preserve its salary cap rules while also maintaining its relationship with other clubs.
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