mls-en : Inter Miami Thriving Financially Since Messi's Arrival
Icaro
Inter Miami's groundbreaking move to bring Lionel Messi into the MLS has proven to be a lucrative decision as the club has witnessed a significant surge in revenue. The $150 million contract with Messi, signed on July 15, 2023, has propelled the club's revenue to new heights, nearly doubling it in just a year.
Before Messi's arrival, Inter Miami generated $50-$60 million in revenue in 2022. This figure escalated to $120-$130 million in 2023 and is projected to surpass $200 million in 2024, shattering previous records. The club attributes this remarkable growth to unprecedented sponsorship agreements, heightened demands for tickets, merchandise, and the Messi mania that has swept through the team.
Xavier Asensi, Inter Miami's president of business operations, emphasized the massive impact Messi had on the international stage, transforming the club's status into a global football powerhouse. The Argentinian star's arrival attracted global attention, enticing major companies to view Inter Miami as a valuable brand with limitless potential, leading to numerous lucrative sponsorship deals.
This season saw Inter Miami secure 11 multi-year partnerships, including agreements with Audi, JPMorgan Chase, Duracell, Lowe's, Visa, and LaCroix. Notably, Audi became the sole brand to sponsor both Inter Miami and Major League Soccer, while the team secured groundbreaking deals with Fracht and Royal Caribbean, setting new records in MLS history.
Social media users expressed a mix of skepticism and excitement over Inter Miami's financial resurgence. While some lauded the club's revenue growth and potential impact on the league's quality, others questioned the sustainability of the Messi project and speculated about future superstar signings. Amidst varying opinions, the consensus remains that Messi's presence has undeniably elevated Inter Miami's global stature and financial prospects.
As Inter Miami continues to flourish financially post-Messi, the club's strategic partnerships and revenue surge lay a robust foundation for its future endeavors, setting a new standard for MLS clubs aiming to reach international prominence.