Messi Stays Silent on Inter Miami Contract Extension Amid 1v1 Soccer Finals
Argentine star Lionel Messi made an appearance at the global finals of a 1v1 soccer tournament he helped create and that is sponsored by a hydration brand he co-founded. Yet, while fans were eager for news, the event brought no updates on his rumored contract extension with Inter Miami.
A Celebration, But No Contract News
Messi watched both the men’s and women’s semifinals and finals before greeting the champions on stage, signing autographs, and even posing for a group selfie with the crowd. Despite the festive atmosphere, the 38-year-old gave no clues about his future with Inter Miami, avoiding media questions and leaving fans in suspense.His appearance came just days after reports suggested that Messi and the club are close to finalizing a deal that would keep him in MLS through at least the 2026 season, coinciding with the opening of Inter Miami’s new stadium near Miami International Airport.
Mascherano Weighs In
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, speaking earlier in Fort Lauderdale, underlined the significance of keeping Messi in the league:“Hopefully it happens soon, because I think it’s great news not only for the club but for MLS overall,” Mascherano said. “It would be something unique for the team and the history of this club. But beyond that, for soccer in the United States, having the greatest player to ever play this sport here for longer would be very, very important.”
Messi’s Current Form
Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 on a two-and-a-half-year contract valued at around $150 million. Since then, he has led the club to its first-ever trophies: the Leagues Cup (2023) and the Supporters’ Shield.This MLS season, Messi has scored 20 goals—the second-highest tally in the league—and contributed 11 assists, despite missing games due to injuries and international duty with Argentina. He was named MLS Most Valuable Player last season.
As speculation continues about both his MLS contract and potential World Cup participation in 2026, Messi and Inter Miami turn their focus to the pitch. The team faces D.C. United this Saturday, starting the weekend in sixth place in the Eastern Conference but still firmly in contention for the playoffs and another Supporters’ Shield run.
