President Donald Trump hosted the 2025 Major League Soccer champions, Inter Miami, at the White House on Thursday. The event was highlighted by the presence of Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer superstar and a key figure in the club’s recent successes.
Messi recently signed a new three-year contract with Inter Miami, securing his stay through 2028. This deal aligns with the team’s plans to move into a new stadium later this year, marking a significant chapter for both the player and the MLS.
The 38-year-old Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever, has been a transformative presence in the league. He won the MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) award consecutively in 2024 and 2025, becoming only the second player in league history to win the award twice in a row. Preki is the only other player to have won multiple MVP titles, in 1997 and 2003.
Messi’s contract is expected to be his last professional engagement, as he debuted at 17 with Barcelona and has enjoyed a stellar career spanning nearly two decades. Beyond MLS, he is an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup championship. Argentina is set to defend their title in the upcoming World Cup hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada during the summer months.
Inter Miami’s achievement and Messi’s continued commitment to the club underscore the growing prominence of Major League Soccer on the global stage. The White House visit not only celebrated the team’s championship but also highlighted the increasing cultural and sporting significance of soccer in the United States.
This milestone event offers a glimpse into the future trajectory of MLS, driven by world-class talent and expanding infrastructure. The partnership between Messi and Inter Miami is set to influence the league’s development and inspire a new generation of soccer fans across North America.
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