Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami reached a historic valuation of .45 billion in 2026, becoming the most valuable club in Major League Soccer (MLS) and marking a turning point in American soccer. Messi’s arrival not only revolutionized the sport but also transformed the league’s business model.
Since his signing in 2023, the so-called “Messi effect” has skyrocketed revenues, sponsorships, ticket sales, and broadcasting rights. In the past year, David Beckham’s club recorded a 22% growth in its valuation, surpassing Los Angeles FC (LAFC), which is valued at over .4 billion.
The impact of Messi on MLS: global growth and financial records
The growth is not limited to Florida. MLS now reaches an average value per club of $767 million, with a global increase of 6%. However, the gap between the top teams and the rest of the league has widened since the arrival of the world champion.
Xabier Asensi, executive of Inter Miami, anticipated it since 2024: “There is a before and after Messi for Miami and for all of MLS”.
The media, commercial, and sporting impact of the former Barcelona and PSG player has turned the American league into a global product, increasing its international exposure and attracting new investments.
Ranking: the most valuable MLS teams in 2026
After Inter Miami (.45 billion), the list is completed by:
- LAFC – More than 1.4 billion
- LA Galaxy – 1.17 billion (+5%)
- Atlanta United – 1.14 billion (+6%)
- New York City FC – 1.12 billion (+12%)
On February 22, the new season kicks off with a symbolic clash between the two highest-rated clubs, consolidating the economic and sporting growth of the MLS.
Inter Miami facing the most valuable clubs in the world
Although the club’s growth is historic in the MLS, on a global level it still competes with European giants such as:
- Real Madrid – €1.35 billion
- Manchester City – €1.29 billion
- Arsenal – €1.27 billion
- PSG – €1.20 billion
- Chelsea – €1.16 billion
However, the pace of Inter Miami’s expansion and Messi’s commercial projection place it among the sports projects with the greatest growth on the American continent.
When does Messi debut at the new Inter Miami stadium?
One of the most anticipated events by fans is the debut at Miami Freedom Park, the new stadium of Inter Miami with a capacity of over 25,000 spectators.
If the planned schedule is maintained, Messi will play his first match in the new stadium on April 4, 2026, against Austin FC. The venue represents a key piece in the club’s financial expansion and in the consolidation of the franchise as a powerhouse in North America.
Before that match, Inter Miami will start the season as visitors, facing rivals such as LAFC, Orlando City, DC United, Charlotte FC, and New York City FC.
Messi and the transformation of soccer in the United States
Since August 2023, MLS has entered a new era. The signing of Lionel Messi by Inter Miami changed the international perception of the tournament, raised competitive standards, and multiplied the market value of the franchises.
With a new stadium, financial records, and sustained growth, Inter Miami not only leads in valuation within MLS but also confirms that the Messi phenomenon continues to generate a global impact both on and off the field.
