An unprecedented MLS arrival means an unprecedented compensation package — check out everything we know about Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi contract.
Lionel Messi was quite arguably the GOAT of the world’s most popular sport before he went and won the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina. As his victory tour continued into 2023, however, he managed to find one last mountain to climb — one that he had spoken about for years but never found the right opportunity to take on.
On July 16, Lucky Leo reached the summit. After playing out his contract with Paris Saint-Germain and respectfully spurning a hail-mary overture from longtime club Barcelona, he was officially introduced as the newest signing for Inter Miami CF of Major League Soccer, completing a long-rumored relocation stateside for the backstretch of his career. No matter what was to happen next, it’s a singularly transformative moment for soccer in America
@boardroom_ Lionel Messi’s move to Miami might be just the first chess piece in futbol’s North American takeover, culminating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. #messi #intermiami #mls #lionelmessi #futbol #soccertiktok #fifa ♬ original sound – Boardroom
And with such an unprecedented arrival, there was always sure to be a head-turning compensation package to match. After all, when you’re the most famous, accomplished person ever to play in MLS, a hefty base salary alone isn’t enough — much like David Beckham before you, equity points and a sponsorship smorgasbord are joining the compensation party, too. (Along with an occasional unassuming jaunt over to Publix, where shopping is a pleasure.)
With that in mind, let’s examine all of the Lionel Messi contract and salary particulars that are currently known at Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi Salary & Contract Details
Overall figures based on available reporting from multiple outlets. On-field 2023 salary confirmed by MLS Players Association.
Current MLS contract at Inter Miami
Years: 2.5
Estimated total value (on-field + off-field): $150,000,000 to $210,000,000
Est. salary per year (on-field + off-field): $50,000,000 to $70,000,000
Est. weekly wage (on-field + off-field): $961,000 to $1,346,000
2023 on-field salary: $20,446,667
Free agency: 2025
Special add-ons to Messi’s MLS agreement:
- Equity stake in Inter Miami CF
- Partnership with league apparel partner Adidas
- Partnership with league broadcast partner Apple
NOTE: Given that part of his deal includes ownership shares in Inter Miami itself, the effective value of this Lionel Messi contract is dependent on the value of the club.
Previous Lionel Messi contract details at Paris Saint-Germain
Financial figures via Capology.
Years: 1
Total value: $65,838,750.93
Salary per year: $65,838,750.93
Weekly wage: $1,266,129.67
Free agency: 2023
Messi’s Transfer History
July 2023: Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1 – France) to Inter Miami CF (Major League Soccer – USA)
- Transfer Fee: None
August 2021: FC Barcelona (La Liga – Spain) to Paris Saint-Germain
- Transfer Fee: None
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