Football icon Lionel Messi has officially signed a new contract with Inter Miami, ending months of negotiations and cementing his commitment to the Major League Soccer club until 2028. The announcement, made just a day before Inter Miami’s playoff opener against Nashville, was accompanied by a social media post featuring Messi signing the deal inside the club’s under-construction Miami Freedom Park stadium with the caption, “He’s Home.”

Expressing his happiness over the extension, Messi said, “It makes me really happy to stay here and continue with this project that has become a beautiful reality—playing in this stadium, at Miami Freedom Park. Since I arrived in Miami, I’ve been very happy, so I’m truly glad to keep going here.” The deal is expected to strengthen the club’s brand and boost ticket sales ahead of its 2026 move into the new facility near Miami International Airport.

At 38, Messi remains the face of MLS after delivering a record-breaking season. He claimed the Golden Boot with 29 goals and 19 assists, setting league records for the most multi-goal games in a season. Last year’s MLS MVP, he is the front-runner to win the award again, which would make him the first player in history to secure it in consecutive seasons. “To enjoy him, watching him compete and inspire the team is something special,” Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano said.

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Inter Miami’s managing owner Jorge Mas called Messi’s signing “an ode to Miami’s dreams,” adding, “We promised our fans that we would build an iconic club. Leo staying through 2028 reinforces that commitment.” The new contract likely marks the final phase of Messi’s illustrious playing career, spanning more than two decades since his Barcelona debut in 2004.

As his former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets prepare to retire, Messi’s presence ensures Inter Miami will retain its global star power. Fresh off leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, Messi is now expected to represent his country again at the 2026 World Cup across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada—all while leading Inter Miami’s continued rise as MLS’ most high-profile club.

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