Soccer superstar Lionel Messi inked a multi-year contract extension to remain with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season, which likely means the Argentine will end his career with the South Florida soccer club.
Reports in September indicated that the two sides had been working toward an extension that would keep Messi in Miami.
As part of the announcement, the club released a video of Messi, 38, signing his new contract in the middle of the site that will be their future home, Miami Freedom Park.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal during the MLS match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF at GEODIS Park on October 18, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. Getty Images
In a preview of an interview scheduled to air on Monday on “NBC Nightly News with Tom Llamas,” Messi said that “it wasn’t” a tough decision to re-sign with Inter Miami.
“I’ve always said that I’ll base my decision on how I feel day to day and how I feel physically and mentally to continue playing and to continue being part of this club,” Messi told Llamas. “And honestly, I felt really good during the year. I’m happy living in Miami, as is my family, and honestly, the decision was easy.”
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) dribbles the ball against Nashville SC during the second half at Geodis Park. Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Messi made the jump to MLS in 2023 in what was considered one of the biggest signings in league history. It drove a new interest in the American soccer league.
Miami captured its first trophy that same year, winning the 2023 Leagues Cup, and the following season, Messi helped lead Inter Miami to the best regular season to claim the MLS Supporters’ Shield.
Messi has scored 71 goals and 37 assists in 82 MLS appearances.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF celebrates after winning the MLS match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF at GEODIS Park on October 18, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. Getty Images
“Our vision was to bring the best players to Inter Miami and to this city, and that’s exactly what we have done,” Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham said in a statement. “We brought the best player to have ever played the game to our city. That shows our commitment to Miami, but it also shows Leo’s commitment to the city, to the club, and to the game.
“He’s still as committed as he’s ever been and he still wants to win.”
Messi’s presence in the MLS has led to sold-out matches at Inter Miami’s home stadium in Fort Lauderdale, as well as stadiums across the league whenever the club goes on the road.
Inter Miami will look to add to its trophy case in 2025 when it opens the MLS Cup Playoffs against Nashville SC.