The news of Lionel Messi’s groundbreaking move to Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer has sent shockwaves through the world of sports and ignited a frenzy of excitement in South Florida. As the most famous soccer player on the planet, Messi’s decision to join David Beckham’s team has not only captured the hearts of soccer enthusiasts but has also set the high-end property market and celebrity scene ablaze in Miami.
The Unprecedented Deal
The monumental deal that brought Lionel Messi to Miami is estimated to be worth a staggering $60 million per year, and it includes him owning a minority stake in the team. But that’s not all; the negotiations have reportedly led to Messi receiving profit-sharing from two of MLS’s major partners, Apple and Adidas, adding to his already impressive income.
While numerous teams worldwide offered extravagant deals to sign Messi, including a jaw-dropping offer from Saudi Arabia amounting to $1.6 billion over three years, the soccer icon ultimately chose Miami. This decision was driven by his desire to embrace a lifestyle reminiscent of his native Argentina, where he could effortlessly mingle with famous friends, speak Spanish, and immerse himself in the city’s vibrant Latin culture.
A Familiar Abode in Miami
One of the main attractions for Messi in Miami is the city’s vibrant Latin population and culture, making it a perfect fit for the soccer superstar. His existing real estate holdings in the city include a luxurious condo in the renowned Porsche Design Tower, located in Sunny Isles Beach. Purchased in 2019 for $5 million, this 4,400-square-foot apartment features awe-inspiring oceanfront views, 24-hour security, a heated swimming pool, gym, and spa.
Like a true real estate connoisseur, Messi ensured privacy in his purchases by acquiring properties through an entity named Edificio Rostower, managed by his father, Jorge Messi. Although the acquisition of his Porsche Design Tower condo was initially not publicly announced, the news eventually leaked, prompting curiosity among real estate enthusiasts.
Luxury Condo Living
While the Porsche Design Tower offers numerous amenities that cater to an affluent lifestyle, its most distinctive feature is the Dezervator—a robotic elevator allowing residents to drive their cars directly to their apartments. With each unit boasting its own private sky garage accommodating up to three cars, the Dezervator has become a coveted amenity among the tower’s billionaire and celebrity occupants.
Not one to settle for just one lavish property, Messi expanded his real estate portfolio with a larger condo purchase on the ninth floor of the opulent Regalia Tower. Acquiring the entire floor for $7.3 million, the residence offers breathtaking views, six pools, a spa, fitness center, yoga studio, children’s playhouse, chef’s kitchen, and a champagne bar and wine cellar.
House-Hunting and Family Life
Despite his extensive condo acquisitions, sources suggest that Messi and his family prefer living in houses, particularly given they have three children. During his stay in Miami for the 2021 Copa America Championship, Messi opted to rent a stunning 5-bedroom waterfront mansion on Key Biscayne, indicating his preference for a private and quiet abode.
Miami’s Celebrity Scene
Miami has long been a magnet for celebrities and high-profile personalities from around the world. With the addition of Lionel Messi to its ranks, the city’s celebrity scene is buzzing with excitement. Miami’s elite resident list includes renowned names like Gloria Estefan, Shakira, Ivanka Trump, Giselle Bundchen, Tom Brady, Cindy Crawford, David Beckham, and, of course, Lionel Messi himself.
The presence of such star power creates an enticing environment for networking and socializing, a prospect that particularly appeals to Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo. With her substantial Instagram following and endorsement deals with top brands, Antonela is herself a prominent figure in the world of fashion and lifestyle.
Close Ties with Fellow Celebrities
Among the influential circles Messi and his family will likely interact with are their fellow Argentine friends living in Miami. One such close friend is Sergio Agüero, a former Barcelona soccer star who resides in nearby Hollywood with his girlfriend, Sofia Calzetti. Although Agüero had to retire due to a heart condition, he remains an integral part of Messi’s support network and will undoubtedly lend his encouragement to Inter Miami CF.
Another Miami resident with strong ties to Messi is the famous singer Shakira. With a shared history that spans back to their time in Barcelona, where her ex-husband Gerard Piqué played alongside Messi, Shakira is well-positioned to assist the Messi family during their transition to Miami. Her influence extends even to the education choices for Messi’s children, with her two kids attending Miami Country Day School, a prestigious institution also favored by Tom Brady and Giselle Bundchen.
Miami’s Argentinian Connection
Miami boasts a sizable population of Argentinian expatriates, estimated to be around 100,000, primarily residing in Miami-Dade and Fort Lauderdale areas. With such a significant Argentinian community, Messi and his family will undoubtedly find a sense of familiarity and camaraderie in the city, further solidifying their decision to make Miami their new home.
Impact on Soccer and the Property Market
Despite Inter Miami CF’s current standing in the MLS standings, the arrival of Lionel Messi has already left an indelible mark on the team’s popularity and success. The team’s Instagram following skyrocketed from 1 million to a staggering 8 million since the announcement of Messi’s joining, making it the most-followed sports franchise in America.
The Messi effect has also driven ticket prices to new heights. Previously, fans could attend Inter Miami games for a modest $22, but with Messi’s debut, ticket prices for his opening day match against Cruz Azul reached over $1,000, with VIP packages fetching up to $10,000 on resale sites. Such a tremendous demand necessitated the expansion of DRV-PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to accommodate 22,000 spectators.
A Future Home: Miami Freedom Park
In 2025, Inter Miami CF will move to its new home, Miami Freedom Park, a state-of-the-art stadium with a seating capacity of 25,000. The park will undoubtedly become a premier destination for soccer enthusiasts, especially those eager to witness Messi’s extraordinary skills in action.
Miami: A Global Soccer Hotbed
As Lionel Messi’s star power illuminates Miami, the city solidifies its position as a global soccer hotbed. The brilliant partnership between team owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas, coupled with the arrival of Messi, has elevated Miami to the forefront of MLS and placed it on the map as a must-visit destination for soccer fans worldwide.