At 38 years old and since his arrival at Inter Miami in 2023, Lionel Messi has transformed MLS and the club itself. He has 83 goals and 44 assists in 95 games and has won four titles for David Beckham’s team: the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield, Conference Championship, and most recently, the MLS Cup.
However, he not only revolutionized American soccer but also became an economic phenomenon capable of generating billions of dollars for the city of Miami in the tourism, hospitality, and real estate sectors.
Messi makes an impact on and off the field
According to the Wall Street Journal, one of the clearest indicators of this phenomenon is the club’s own growth, which went from being valued at $585 million to becoming the most valuable in the MLS, with a value of around $1.45 billion. The effect is also felt in revenue: the franchise surpassed $200 million annually.
Another indicator is the recent opening of the new “Nu Stadium.” With a capacity of 26,700 spectators and valued at $1 billion, the complex also includes commercial spaces, offices, and hotels.
Furthermore, Leo’s arrival in the U.S. has paved the way for other competitions to take place in the country, such as Miami Gardens hosting the 2024 Copa América final (where Argentina became two-time champions), eight matches of the FIFA Club World Cup, and now preparing to host seven matches of the FIFA World Cup.
Furthermore, organizations like FIFA and clubs like FC Barcelona have moved operations to the city, reinforcing its central role in the soccer business.
These events are not merely spectacles; they are also major economic drivers that attract thousands of fans, increasing the appeal for investors.
Hotels, bars, and restaurants see higher revenue on match days, especially when Leo plays. His fans want to cross “seeing the player they consider the greatest of all time play live” off their bucket list, and every game draws a full house, even away games.
In short, Messi has proven to be much more than a star signing: he has become an economic engine capable of redefining the identity of an entire city.
Read the full article here
