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Will Messi & Inter Miami Play In Copa Libertadores? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Jan 18, 2026 1:06 PM ET

Inter Miami will soon begin their 2026 journey in the MLS and this time as current MLS Champions. Inter Miami will start their MLS title defense in February against LAFC.

Inter Miami will also be competing in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and will look to win the competition.

The club has also been linked to potentially play in the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores, which only has South American clubs. The competition has invited teams from CONCACAF, but never any MLS team.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) looks on during an Inter Miami Training Session at Florida Blue Training Center on January 17, 2026 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Despite no MLS club ever playing in the competition, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas pushes that the team should be involved in the competition ahead of the 2026 season.

Jorge Mas on Inter Miami and Copa Libertadores

In an interview with Diario Ole, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas revealed that there were conversations with CONMEBOL about the possibility of Inter Miami competing in the Copa Libertadores.

The club is not expected to compete in the competition in the 2026 Copa Libertadores season, but it could happen soon.

Mas said that the MLS champions should be part of the competition and said, "It’s a dream. I’ve already had conversations with CONMEBOL about participating in the Copa Libertadores. There are precedents with Mexican clubs."

Mas continues and said, "I want to play the Libertadores — I’m saying it publicly. I believe the MLS champion deserves a place in the competition."

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

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