Official reports have now confirmed that Lionel Messi has signed a contract extension with Inter Miami ahead of a new season.
Lionel Messi, who just wrapped up one of the most remarkable seasons in Major League Soccer history and is widely expected to secure his second straight league MVP award in 2025, isn’t done yet.
The Argentine legend has officially signed a three-year contract extension with Inter Miami, keeping him at the club until 2028. The announcement was made via Inter Miami’s social media channels, featuring a video of Messi putting pen to paper inside the team’s soon-to-be home, Miami Freedom Park, which is set to open in 2026.
The news drops just before Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Cup playoff opener against Nashville SC on Friday, October 252025. Despite dealing with minor back discomfort earlier in the week, coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Messi is expected to play in the match.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber reflected on Messi’s influence since joining the league:
“When Lionel Messi chose MLS, it transformed everything, not only for Inter Miami but for soccer in North America as a whole. We’ve witnessed something extraordinary: the greatest player ever drawing global attention to our league. We’re beyond thrilled that Leo will continue his journey here.”
Messi’s previous contract, signed in 2023, was due to expire at the end of 2025. Under that deal, he earned $20.445 million annually, making him MLS’s highest-paid player, a status he is expected to maintain under the new extension.
The forward, born June 24, 1987, will turn 39 during the 2026 World Cup, 40 in the 2027 MLS season, and could still be playing professionally at 41 if he fulfils the final year of his contract. Should he complete the full term, it would mark 25 seasons in professional football since his debut.
According to USA Today, a unique clause from his initial 2023 agreement with Inter Miami and MLS will take effect upon his retirement. Messi will join Jorge Mas, Jose Mas, and Sir David Beckham as a co-owner of Inter Miami.
Speaking after what he called his final World Cup qualifying match in September 2025, Messi expressed enthusiasm about his future, hinting at the possibility of featuring in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, he stopped short of confirming his participation.
