Argentine Star Receives Special Award Amid Playoff Push and Stadium Milestone
MIAMI, Florida:Lionel Messi, the global icon who has electrified Major League Soccer, was presented with a special distinction by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez on Wednesday, celebrating his profound impact on the city, the country, and the world of football.
The ceremony, held at the Kaseya Center, saw Mayor Suarez present the award to the Inter Miami star. “I have had the wish to give this [key] to you for all that you’ve done for our grand city, our country, and the world of football. Thank you,” Suarez remarked.
Messi, who joined Inter Miami in July 2023, has had a transformative tenure. He immediately led the club to its first-ever trophy, the 2023 Leagues Cup, followed by the 2024 Supporters’ Shield and setting a league record for the most points in a single MLS campaign. His dominance has continued, earning him the 2024 MLS MVP and the 2025 Golden Boot. He is currently a finalist for the 2025 MLS MVP award.
The honor arrives shortly after the Argentine officially signed a three-year contract extension, keeping him at Inter Miami until the 2028 MLS season. The news solidifies his commitment to the South Florida project.
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas also paid tribute to Messi during the ceremony. “This is a small gift from this city, which has captured the hearts of all of us,” Mas said.
A grateful Messi shared his appreciation: “Thank you. I feel very honoured by this. It’s true that, as I just said, we feel very loved, very grateful, very happy to be living in this city, and to receive this distinction is a great honour for me, so thank you.”
The team continues to grow off the pitch as well. On the same day as Messi’s honor, Inter Miami announced a major construction milestone with the installation of the final beams for the stadium canopy near Miami International Airport, part of the development of their new home.
Meanwhile, the squad is concentrating on its crucial match this weekend. Inter Miami is preparing for the decisive Game 3 of the best-of-three Round 1 playoff series against Nashville SC, set to take place on Saturday in Florida, with a spot in the Eastern Conference Semifinals on the line.
