Messi Extends Inter Miami Contract Until 2028

NEW YORK: Lionel Messi has prolonged his tenure with Inter Miami, signing a contract extension that will keep him with the Major League Soccer (MLS) club until 2028, the team announced Thursday.

The MLS, through its Spanish-language X account, verified that Messi will remain an active player for Miami.

“Official: Leo Messi will continue as an MLS player with Inter Miami,” the league posted on X.

The Argentine captain, a World Cup champion, was initially set to conclude his contract with Miami at the close of the 2025 MLS season.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient had previously voiced his desire to spend his remaining playing years with Inter Miami. However, the 38-year-old has not made public his retirement plans, suggesting that age will not be a determining factor.

Lionel Messi currently leads the MLS in scoring with 29 goals. Inter Miami concluded the season in third place in the Eastern Conference and are scheduled to face Nashville SC in the opening round of the MLS Cup playoffs, commencing Friday.

A report indicated that this contract renewal was anticipated. Sources close to the club revealed last month that an agreement on the extension had been reached.

Having joined the MLS club in 2023, Messi, with this extension, is committed to playing competitively through and beyond the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The global football tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11, with the final match to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.