Lionel Messi is reportedly close to signing a new contract extension with Inter Miami, a move that would keep the Argentine legend in Major League Soccer until at least the end of the 2026 season. According to The Athletic, Messi and the club are in advanced talks, and an agreement could be finalized within the next 60 to 90 days.
Messi, 37, joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain in a historic move that sent shockwaves through the football world. The World Cup winner signed a two-and-a-half-year deal, which was set to expire at the end of 2025. However, the contract included an option to extend for a further year a clause the club is now eager to activate.
The extension would ensure that Messi remains with Inter Miami as they move into their new $1 billion Miami Freedom Park stadium, set to open in 2026. The 25,000-seat facility is part of a larger 131-acre development project and marks a major milestone for the club, which is co-owned by David Beckham.
Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has been nothing short of transformative. He has scored 42 goals and provided 21 assists in 48 appearances, leading the team to its first-ever trophy, the 2023 Leagues Cup, just months after his arrival. He also played a vital role in helping Miami win the Supporters’ Shield in 2024.
Managing owner Jorge Mas confirmed ongoing discussions with Messi about his future and expressed optimism that the Argentine star will remain with the club beyond this year. “All the stars are aligning for something great,” Mas said. “It’s up to him, but my hope has always been to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026.”
Messi’s influence extends beyond the pitch. His presence has significantly raised the profile of MLS globally, attracting new fans and increasing media coverage. He is expected to feature in the expanded Club World Cup this summer, where Inter Miami will face tough opposition from Palmeiras, Porto, and Al-Ahly in Group A.
With Inter Miami unbeaten in the 2025 MLS season and Messi continuing to deliver at the highest level, the club’s ambitions remain high. If the new deal is finalized, Messi’s legacy in the U.S. could grow even further cementing his role as both a player and a future shareholder in the club.
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