Lionel Messi's Lucrative Inter Miami Contract Unveiled
Global football superstar Lionel Messi is reportedly earning an astonishing annual income of up to $80 million while playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. This revelation comes directly from the club's co-owner, Jorge Mas, who provided detailed insights into the financial aspects of Messi's groundbreaking agreement.
Official Salary Figures Confirmed
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Jorge Mas explicitly stated, "We pay Messi between $70 million and $80 million per year." He further elaborated on the significant investment, noting, "Players are expensive. I pay Messi, worth every penny, but it's $70 million to $80 million a year. Across everything." This comprehensive compensation package places Messi at the pinnacle of MLS earnings, far surpassing other top players in the league.
MLS Salary Structure and Comparisons
According to official data from the MLS Players' Association, Messi's base salary is documented at $12 million, with his guaranteed compensation listed at $20.45 million. Despite these figures, his total earnings from Inter Miami extend well beyond these amounts due to additional contractual benefits. This makes him the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer by a substantial margin.
For context, Messi's earnings dwarf those of other prominent MLS stars. LAFC's Son Heung-min receives $11.15 million annually, while Messi's former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, who retired last season, earned $8.75 million during his time with Inter Miami. The disparity highlights Messi's unique market value and impact on the league's financial landscape.
Equity Stake and Club Valuation Surge
Messi's contract with Inter Miami includes a revolutionary component: a percentage of ownership in the club itself. This equity arrangement is believed to contribute at least $60 million annually to his total earnings, depending on the team's continuously rising valuation. Since Messi's arrival, Inter Miami's franchise value has experienced a dramatic increase.
In 2023, the club was valued at approximately $585 million. However, according to Forbes, that valuation has now skyrocketed to $1.35 billion, reflecting Messi's transformative influence on the organization's commercial appeal and global profile. His ownership stake is scheduled to activate fully once he retires from professional football, securing his long-term financial interests.
Contract Duration and Ownership Structure
Lionel Messi's current agreement with Inter Miami extends through the 2028-29 season, ensuring his presence with the club for several more years. Inter Miami is primarily owned by Jorge Mas, his brother Jose Mas, and football legend David Beckham. Messi's involvement has not only elevated the club's sporting ambitions but has also fundamentally reshaped the economic dynamics of Major League Soccer, attracting unprecedented attention and investment to the North American football scene.
