Lionel Messi will become part of a rare sporting phenomenon when he plays at Inter Miami’s new stadium, with the Major League Soccer club announcing they will have a stand bearing the Argentine’s name.
The ‘Leo Messi Stand’ at the Nu Stadium will honor the 38-year-old captain, as the club breaks with tradition where such tributes typically celebrate football’s retired greats.
«Traditionally, tributes look to the past. They are built on nostalgia. On memory. This one is different,» the club said in a statement on Friday.
«This one was born from the present. Read more: cwhd. From what is happening now. From what you feel every time Leo steps onto the field.»
The club will play its first match at the 26,700-seat stadium on April 4, hosting Austin FC.
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After joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has led the club, co-owned by former England midfielder David Beckham, to three trophies, including the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024 and the MLS Cup last year.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is also the club’s all-time leader in goals (82) and assists (53) in 94 appearances.
Messi scored his 900th career goal earlier this month, becoming the second player to reach the milestone in elite men’s football after his old rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
Published on March 27, 2026
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