Inter Miami and Argentine football icon Lionel Messi have reached an agreement to extend his contract, ensuring his stay in Major League Soccer (MLS) well beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to sources close to the deal.
The extension means Messi, who turns 38 before the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will remain active in competitive football during and after the World Cup. An official announcement is expected within the next two weeks.
Messi to End His Career in MLS
The contract signals that Messi is likely to finish his legendary career in the MLS, marking the league’s biggest-ever retention of global talent. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, the Argentine has transformed the profile of the club and the league itself.
Messi’s illustrious career was largely defined by his time at FC Barcelona, where he rose from La Masia’s youth academy to become the club’s greatest player. Between 2004 and 2021, he won 10 La Liga titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy four times, cementing his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats.
World Cup Champion and MLS MVP
Messi added to his legacy in 2022 when he led Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar, fulfilling his nation’s long-awaited dream. He has since expressed a strong desire to defend that title at the next World Cup.
Despite Inter Miami’s playoff exit, Messi’s influence was undeniable in the 2024 MLS season, where he was crowned the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). His presence has boosted global interest in MLS, making his continued stay a major win for both the club and American soccer.
What Messi’s Extension Means for MLS
Messi’s decision to remain with Inter Miami goes beyond football—it solidifies MLS as a growing destination for global superstars and positions the league for historic fan engagement leading up to the 2026 World Cup.
With Messi committed to Inter Miami, fans worldwide can expect to see more unforgettable moments from one of the greatest players ever to grace the game.
