Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has signed a contract extension with Inter Miami CF that keeps him with the club through the end of the 2028 MLS season, committing the 38-year-old to play until age 41.
Announced on October 23, 2025, the three-year deal solidifies Messi’s long-term future in Major League Soccer after just two seasons, where he’s already shattered records and transformed the league’s global profile.
From leading Inter Miami to the 2023 Leagues Cup triumph to his individual exploits—29 goals and 19 assists in 2025 alone—the extension is a testament to his impact. But why extend now?
In this in-depth look at Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami contract extension through 2028, we explore the reasons behind the decision, including Messi’s own words, the role of the club’s new stadium, and broader implications for MLS and his legacy.
The Announcement: Details of Messi’s New Deal
Inter Miami CF confirmed the extension on October 23, 2025, via an official statement, calling it a “landmark moment” for the club and South Florida. The deal runs through December 2028, with Messi remaining as team captain and a key ambassador.
Financial terms weren’t disclosed, but sources indicate it includes performance incentives tied to trophies and individual awards, plus equity options in the club’s future ventures.
Messi’s arrival in July 2023 revolutionized Inter Miami, boosting attendance by 300% and doubling the club’s valuation from $600 million to $1.2 billion by 2025.
The extension aligns with the club’s vision under co-owners Jorge Mas and David Beckham to build a dynasty, fulfilling promises to fans and the city.
Why Lionel Messi Extended: His Own Words and Key Motivators
In a heartfelt statement released alongside the announcement, Messi opened up about his decision, emphasizing personal fulfillment and club ambitions. Here’s what he said:
“It makes me really happy to stay here and to continue with this project that, besides being a dream, 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.”
“We’re all really excited about the moment when we can finally play at Miami Freedom Park. We can’t wait for it to be finished—to experience it from the inside, in our new home, and for the fans to enjoy it as well. It’s going to be something very special to play at home in such a spectacular stadium.”
1. Happiness and Family Life in Miami
Messi has repeatedly cited his family’s joy in South Florida as a cornerstone of his commitment. Since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, along with their three sons, have settled into a luxurious lifestyle, including recent purchases of four multimillion-dollar condos in Fort Lauderdale. “Since I arrived in Miami, I’ve been very happy,” Messi noted, highlighting the city’s appeal for his family and the sense of belonging he’s found.
This personal stability, away from the pressures of European football, allows him to focus on enjoying the game.
2. Excitement Over Miami Freedom Park Stadium
A major motivator is the club’s new 25,000-seat stadium, Miami Freedom Park, set to open in 2026. Currently playing at DRV PNK Stadium (capacity 21,550), Inter Miami’s temporary home, the team craves a dedicated venue.
Messi described it as “our new home” and “something very special,” underscoring how the state-of-the-art facility – complete with community spaces and youth academies—aligns with his vision for a lasting legacy.
The stadium represents Inter Miami’s ambition to become a global powerhouse, much like Barcelona’s Camp Nou did for Messi’s career.
3. Club Success and Project Continuation
Messi views Inter Miami as “a dream” turned “beautiful reality,” pointing to on-field achievements like the 2023 Leagues Cup win and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield.
His extension ensures he leads the charge for more silverware, including an MLS Cup, while mentoring young talents. Beckham echoed this, stating the deal “fulfills promises to fans” and cements Messi’s role in building an “iconic club.”
4. Broader Impact on MLS and Personal Legacy
The extension boosts MLS’s global appeal, with Messi’s presence already drawing record viewership (e.g., 2.5 million for a 2025 match).
For Messi, it allows him to chase records like most MLS goals (currently 54) and potentially retire on his terms, free from the intensity of Europe.
What the Extension Means for Inter Miami, MLS, and Messi’s Future
For Inter Miami, it’s a franchise-defining move: Messi’s commitment stabilizes the squad amid rumors of Luis Suárez’s potential departure and attracts stars like Sergio Busquets’ extension. MLS benefits from sustained star power, with commissioner Don Garber praising it as a “game-changer” for attendance and revenue.
At 38, Messi plans to play until 41, possibly eyeing the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. “I’m truly glad to keep going here,” he said, signaling no immediate retirement.
Messi Records and achievements with Inter Miami
- Club all-time records: Messi holds the club records for goals (71) and assists (44), with 107 total goal contributions in 82 appearances across all competitions.
- 2025 MLS Golden Boot: He won the Golden Boot with 29 goals in the regular season, becoming Inter Miami’s first player to win the award.
- 2024 MLS MVP: Messi was named the 2024 MLS MVP and is a finalist for the 2025 award, poised to become the first back-to-back winner in league history.
- 2024 Supporters’ Shield: He helped the team win the Supporters’ Shield in 2024 with a record-setting 74 points.
- 2023 Leagues Cup: Messi guided Inter Miami to their first-ever trophy, winning the inaugural 2023 Leagues Cup.
- Club World Cup: He led Inter Miami to a historic round of 16 finish in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami contract extension through 2028 is driven by his profound happiness in Miami, excitement for Miami Freedom Park, and desire to build on the club’s successes. As he shared, it’s about turning dreams into reality in a place that feels like home. This move not only secures his legacy but also elevates MLS further.