Messi Extends Inter Miami Contract Until Age 41
Inter Miami has announced a new contract for their 38-year-old captain, Lionel Messi, keeping him with the club until 2028 — three more years than his previous deal.
The club revealed the news in a short video posted on social media, showing Messi signing the contract at the construction site of Miami Freedom Park, the team’s upcoming new stadium. The caption was simple: “He’s home.”
The new deal marks a major milestone for both Messi and Inter Miami. When Miami Freedom Park opens in 2026, the Argentine superstar will serve as the face of a new era for the club. The 25,000-seat stadium, located near Miami International Airport, will feature green spaces, dining areas, a tech hub, and numerous community amenities.
“The best way to help Messi is to get everything right,” head coach Javier Mascherano said. “When he’s comfortable, the entire team plays better. With Messi, the chance of victory is always within reach.”
At 38, Messi continues to perform at the highest level in North America. He recently finished the first stage of the 2025 MLS season as the Golden Boot winner, scoring 29 goals and providing 19 assists. He also became the first player in MLS history to score multiple goals in 10 matches within a single season.
Messi’s presence has transformed the league. “When Messi chose MLS, it was a historic turning point,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “He brought global attention to North American soccer. We’re thrilled he’s decided to stay.”
According to USA Today, Messi remains the league’s highest-paid player, earning about $20.4 million per year. His contract also retains a special clause: after retirement, Messi will become a co-owner of Inter Miami alongside Jorge Mas, Jose Mas, and David Beckham.
Since joining the club in July 2023, Messi has helped Inter Miami win its first-ever trophy — the 2023 Leagues Cup — and earned the 2024 MVP award.
With this extension, Messi could play professionally through the 2028 season, when he turns 41. “I live day by day, match by match,” Messi said. “As long as I’m enjoying it, I’ll keep playing. If not, I’ll stop. It all depends on how I feel.”
Messi has not ruled out playing in the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. By then he will be 39 — and it could be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Up next, Messi and Inter Miami will face Nashville in the first round of the playoffs — with the first leg in Florida on October 24 and the return leg in Tennessee on November 1.