Lionel Messi extends U.S. love affair and shocks fans with length of new Inter Miami contract

Lionel Messi has officially signed a contract extension with Inter Miami, securing his future with the club through the end of 2028. The agreement keeps the 38-year-old Argentine icon in Major League Soccer and is widely expected to be the final deal of his legendary career.

Since joining the league in mid-2023, Messi has brought global attention and a competitive spark to MLS. With this new agreement, he is set to remain the centerpiece of Inter Miami’s project for years to come.

A new chapter ahead at Miami Freedom Park

Messi’s new contract is perfectly timed for one of the club’s biggest milestones. Inter Miami plans to inaugurate its new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, in the first half of 2026, and now the team can count on having its global superstar on the field for the opening.

The extension also positions Messi to close out his career in Florida, likely marking the end of one of soccer’s greatest stories where it began its final act - in pink and black.

Growing ambitions

Messi’s renewal underscores Inter Miami’s determination to compete for every trophy in North America. Since his arrival, the club has already lifted the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, while qualifying for major competitions such as the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the Concacaf Champions Cup.

His influence has transformed the team’s competitive ceiling, turning Inter Miami into one of the most ambitious projects in MLS history.

Inter Miami keepings building around Messi

The club’s ownership group - David Beckham, Jorge Mas, and José Mas - has continued to strengthen the roster around their star player. The recent signing of Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid adds another key piece and a familiar face for Messi from the national team setup.

A contract extension for Luis Suárez is also reportedly in the works, which would allow the Uruguayan striker to remain part of Miami’s South American core alongside his longtime friend.

Messi eyes 2026 World Cup

While Messi’s club future is secure, his international ambitions are still alive. In March 2026, Argentina will face Spain in the Finalissima, a clash that could pit Messi against teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, the new star of FC Barcelona. The match is seen as an early test ahead of the next World Cup.

Next summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico would be Messi’s sixth and, by his own admission, likely his last. After Argentina’s friendly against Venezuela in September, he said he will continue with the national team “as long as I feel good physically.”

For now, Messi has made one thing clear: his story in Miami is far from over.

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