Lionel Messi earns between $70 million and $80 million per year at Inter Miami, making him the highest‑paid player in Major League Soccer. The Argentine forward’s arrival has not only elevated the team’s competitive profile but also reshaped the financial landscape of the league.
Jorge Mas, co-owner of Inter Miami, confirmed the scale of Messi’s compensation in a Bloomberg interview. “We pay Messi between $70 million and $80 million per year,” Mas said. “Players at this level are expensive. I pay Messi, worth every penny, but it is $70 million to $80 million a year across everything.”
The MLS Players’ Association provides additional clarity on Messi’s earnings. His base salary stands at $12 million, while guaranteed compensation is listed at $20.45 million. This puts him ahead of other top earners in MLS, including LAFC’s Son Heung‑min with $11.15 million and former Inter Miami teammate Sergio Busquets, who earned $8.75 million before retiring.
Messi’s agreement with Inter Miami extends far beyond the traditional salary structure. Reports indicate that his contract includes a percentage of ownership in the club. This stake has contributed substantially to his overall earnings, with the franchise’s valuation skyrocketing since his signing. Forbes estimated Inter Miami’s worth at $585 million in 2023, but recent assessments place the franchise at $1.35 billion.
The equity component of Messi’s contract is believed to add at least $60 million annually to his income, depending on the club’s rising valuation. Sources indicate that Messi’s ownership stake will formally activate once he retires. His contract is set to run through the 2028‑29 season, tying his financial future closely to the team’s performance and value growth.
Inter Miami, primarily owned by Jorge Mas, his brother Jose Mas, and David Beckham, has undergone a profound transformation since Messi joined. His presence has drawn global attention, increased revenue streams, and shifted how Major League Soccer is perceived financially. Messi’s contract demonstrates a new model for player compensation in the league, combining elite salary with ownership incentives.
The Messi effect is evident not only on the pitch but also in the broader economics of the sport in the United States. By linking player contracts to franchise growth, Inter Miami has positioned itself as both a competitive club and a lucrative investment, setting a benchmark that other MLS teams may now feel compelled to follow.
