When Inter Miami made the high-profile decision to sign Lionel Messi to a $150 million contract, the club was betting big on his influence. Since Messi's arrival on July 15, 2023, Inter Miami's revenue has surged, nearly doubling. In 2022, the club reported $50-$60 million in revenue, which ballooned to $120-$130 million in 2023. Projections for 2024 suggest over $200 million in earnings, setting a new club record. Messi's presence has fueled this massive growth, driven by lucrative sponsorship deals, heightened demand for tickets, and a surge in merchandise sales.
The economic transformation was immediate. Inter Miami’s president of business operations, Xavier Asensi, emphasized the global shift Messi brought to the club. With Messi on board, the club now operates on an international level, attracting major brands like Audi, JPMorgan Chase, and Visa. Additionally, Inter Miami secured record-breaking deals, including jersey sponsorships with Fracht and Royal Caribbean.
Beyond sponsorships, Messi’s impact has been felt in ticket sales and merchandise. His jersey is the top seller in MLS, contributing to a 41% rise in league-wide jersey sales. Demand for Inter Miami season tickets soared, with fans willing to pay top dollar. Even as the club prepares for its new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, Messi’s contract through 2025 offers hope that the soccer star will inaugurate the new venue.
As Inter Miami's on-field performances continue, their recent clash with Columbus Crew also adds to the excitement. Columbus Crew, a consistent force in the MLS standings, faced off against Miami in a match that was as much about Messi's influence as the game itself. Both clubs are vying for better playoff positioning, with Messi's Miami aiming to climb the standings. Columbus Crew, known for its Supporters' Shield win in past seasons, remains a tough competitor, making each encounter a crucial battle in the MLS.
The buzz around Inter Miami’s schedule, standings, and games like Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew shows Messi’s far-reaching impact on Major League Soccer (MLS). Fans flock to matches, Messi jerseys fill stadiums, and Miami’s global reputation continues to grow. The match between Inter Miami and Columbus Crew, as with all of Miami's games, draws attention from soccer enthusiasts worldwide, eager to see Messi's magic on the field. Whether it's for the MLS Supporters' Shield or playoff success, Inter Miami's transformation, led by Messi, is reshaping the MLS landscape.
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