Lionel Messi has recently renewed his contract with Inter Miami. He will play in Miami's jersey until 2028. The contract was ending this year, but they extended it before that. What benefits will Messi get in this new contract? Find out-
In the new contract, Messi will receive 5.9 billion dollars per year. This makes him the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer history. His salary is more than the entire team's salary.
Along with salary, bonuses, advertising and dividend shares combined, the amount comes to $60 million per year. In 2023, it was $150 million. However, that amount was for three years.
The new contract states that Messi can take ownership of Inter Miami if he wants. After retirement, if he wishes, he will be given a part of the ownership. This is management's decision to keep him associated with the team for a long time.
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There are also bonuses for personal achievements. If he gets goals, assists, Most Valuable Player award, then he will receive separate bonuses for each achievement.
Additionally, bonuses will be available for winning the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield.
This condition has surprised everyone. Messi will receive bonuses from the club for success at the international level as well as club success. International level means events like the 2026 World Cup, Club World Cup, and CONCACAF Champions Cup.
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Inter Miami has built its new Freedom Park Stadium. Which will be inaugurated in 2026. Inter Miami wants to use Messi for promotion from the inauguration of this stadium. This stadium is larger in size, so ticket sales will increase and the club's revenue will also increase.
Major League Soccer has contracts with Apple TV and Adidas for broadcasting. Messi is also there. Messi will receive a portion of the revenue that Apple TV and Adidas will earn from broadcasting Major League Soccer.
In the next three years, the club cannot make Messi play in every match if they want to; Messi can decide how long he will play or how many matches he will play.
MLS and Inter Miami authorities hope that extending this contract could increase the franchise value to $1.19 billion. This could be a turning point for football in North America.
