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Is Lionel Messi About to Become an Owner of Inter Miami?

Originally posted on Total Apex Sports | By Fahad Hamid | Last updated Sep 22, 2025 9:36 AM ET

When Lionel Messi decided to ditch the high-stakes drama of European football for the sunny shores of Miami, a lot of folks in the soccer world collectively scratched their heads. Was he just cashing in and winding down his career? Was this the end of the GOAT as we knew him?

Fast forward a bit, and it’s safe to say those questions have been answered. Messi didn’t just join the MLS; he practically picked it up, put it on his back, and sprinted, leaving a trail of sold-out stadiums, jaw-dropped fans, and a global spotlight that American soccer has desperately craved for decades.

But just when you thought the Messi-in-Miami saga couldn’t get any more like a blockbuster movie, new reports suggest the next chapter is already being written. With his current contract winding down, whispers from the inside hint at a new deal that goes far beyond just kicking a ball.

This time, it looks like Messi is planning to transition from player to part-owner, securing a permanent spot in the club’s boardroom. Honestly, at this point, would anyone be surprised if he ended up owning the whole league?

The Deal on the Table: Player Today, Owner Tomorrow?

Let’s get into the juicy details. According to several reports, Messi and Inter Miami are on the verge of inking a brand-new contract that would see him lighting up the pitch for at least two more years, with an option for a third. But here’s the kicker: the deal allegedly includes a clause that grants him an ownership stake in the club once he decides to finally hang up his magical boots.

This isn’t just a golden parachute; it’s a strategic power move. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has been vocal about wanting Messi to christen the club’s shiny new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, which is slated to open next year.

Keeping Messi on the roster through 2026, and then as a figurehead in the ownership group, is a masterstroke in ensuring the club remains a global brand long after his playing days are over. It’s the kind of long-term thinking that keeps the hype train—and the revenue—chugging along.

Business as Usual: Messi Continues to Dominate

While the suits in the back office sort out his future empire, Messi is still doing what he does best: making a mockery of defenses. In a recent nail-biter against D.C. United, he was once again the star of the show, bagging two goals and an assist in a 3-2 victory that had fans at Chase Stadium on the edge of their seats. The man now has 22 league goals this season, and every match is another highlight reel of why he’s still the biggest draw in the sport.

The game was a classic Messi performance. First, a perfectly weighted through-ball to Tadeo Allende in the 35th minute to open the scoring. After D.C. clawed one back, Messi decided enough was enough, linking up with his old Barcelona buddy Jordi Alba to casually restore the lead.

Even after a missed penalty from a teammate threatened to let D.C. back in, Messi sealed the deal with a signature curling finish from outside the box. It was just another day at the office for a guy who seems to operate on a different plane of existence. This performance also tied him with Carlos Vela for the second-most games in MLS history with both a goal and an assist. Breaking records is just part of his routine now.

What Does This Mean for the Future of MLS?

So, what happens when a player of Messi’s stature becomes an owner? For Inter Miami, it’s a golden ticket. His name alone guarantees continued interest, sponsorship deals, and the ability to attract other top-tier talent. We’ve already seen his pals Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets join the party. With Messi in an ownership role, who’s to say who they could pull in next?

For the MLS, it’s a massive boost in credibility. Having one of the greatest athletes of all time not just play in the league but invest in its future sends a powerful message to the rest of the football world: America is no longer a retirement home for aging stars. It’s a league with ambition, and Messi is stamping his approval on it.

The move from player to owner isn’t a new concept—David Beckham famously did it with Inter Miami itself—but with Messi, the scale is just different. It’s a move that could redefine the league’s trajectory for years to come. So, get ready, because it looks like the Messi show is just getting started.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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