Lionel Messi signs Inter Miami extension through 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Lionel Messi is staying in Miami.

ESPN announced that the Argentine superstar is about to sign a new multi-year contract extension, putting an end to recent speculation about his future and a move away from Major League Soccer. The deal will reportedly keep Messi in MLS through the 2026 FIFA World Cup — and through the long-awaited opening of Miami Freedom Park.

Messi and Suarez celebreate in 2025: partnership could be done at season end (Inter Miami / X)

Messi’s arrival in July 2023 transformed both club and league, delivering a surge in global attention, ticket sales, and cultural relevance for Major League Soccer. From sold-out stadiums to international headlines, his presence redefined what MLS could represent on the world stage.

Now, with this extension, Inter Miami wants to remain at the center of what MLS wants to offer spectators around the world. The agreement will likely keep Messi in Miami through the end of his career, wearing the pink and black — and making Miami the final chapter in one of football’s greatest athletes. Questions remain about his supporting cast, including the status of Luis Suarez, who was recently involved in a brawl during the final game vs. Seattle in Leagues Cup, only to be suspended several games during the year by the league (and also for Leagues Cup in 2026).

Rodrigo de Paul arrived to give Miami some depth in midfield but the team's defensive posture in the last few games have shown that despite Messi continuing to be magical with his game, there's only so much he can do to help his team win. Keeping him in Miami certainly gives the franchise a chance to win the MLS Cup at least once during the Messi era. Since arriving, both conferences have crowned winners, but Inter Miami has falling short of reaching a Final, even since Lionel landed in the United States.

Messi during Leagues Cup finals in 2024 (Inter Miami / X)

The timing of his contract also aligns with the league’s broader ambitions, as the United States, Canada, and Mexico prepare to co-host the 2026 World Cup next year. It would be a shame to let Messi leave to Europe or Saudi Arabia, one year before what could most likely be, his last World Cup.

In the end, MLS retains its most iconic figure, while adding others in Son Heung-min and Thomas Müller during the last window. It doesn't seem MLS is stopping growing anytime soon. With Messi staying, the league further signals its intent to be a major player in the global football ecosystem.