Trump Hosts Lionel Messi and Inter Miami at White House to Mark 2025 MLS Cup Victory

U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Argentine football legend Lionel Messi and the squad of Inter Miami CF at the White House on Thursday to celebrate the club’s historic triumph in the 2025 MLS Cup. The ceremony marked the first time in the club’s history that Inter Miami secured the league title, and the reception followed the longstanding American tradition of honouring championship-winning teams with a visit to the White House. The event brought together players, coaches, and club executives in a formal celebration of the team’s achievement.

During the reception, Messi and his teammates presented Trump with a pink No. 47 Inter Miami jersey symbolising his role as the 47th President of the United States. The event was attended by Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano and club co-owner Jorge Mas, who also handed the president a signature Miami pink football. Standing alongside Messi and the team, Trump welcomed the players to the White House and praised their accomplishments during the championship season.

“It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: ‘Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi,’” Trump said during his remarks at the event. The president commended the team for their talent and dedication, noting the global influence of Messi and the growing popularity of football in the United States. Following the formal reception, Trump invited the players and club officials to visit the Oval Office, continuing the celebratory interaction between the administration and the MLS champions.

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Images and videos from the reception were shared on official social media platforms operated by the White House, including a 30-minute livestream of the event posted on YouTube. One social media post accompanying the visuals read, “CHAMPIONS. POTUS x MESSI,” highlighting the symbolic meeting between one of the world’s most celebrated footballers and the American president. The ceremony attracted significant public attention, reflecting Messi’s global stature and the milestone achievement for the Miami-based club.

While addressing the gathering and media, Trump also briefly commented on international developments and economic concerns linked to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. He stated that his administration had taken steps to stabilise oil prices, including offering political risk insurance for tankers operating in the Gulf region. Trump also referenced military cooperation between the United States and Israel during the ongoing conflict, asserting that operations against adversaries were progressing ahead of schedule.

During his speech, Trump also praised several legendary football figures, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Pelé, before turning his focus to Messi’s career achievements. The president noted that Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and World Cup champion, had chosen to continue his career with Inter Miami despite opportunities to play elsewhere. Messi previously received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former U.S. president Joe Biden, although he was unable to attend that ceremony due to scheduling conflicts.

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