MLS Adjusts Rules for Inter Miami Following Messi's Arrival
2024-10-07 17:14- Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in a record $150 million deal, significantly boosting the team's performance and revenue.
- The MLS has allowed Inter Miami to release both new home and away kits for the 2025 season, breaking traditional league rules.
- This decision reflects the league's strategy to capitalize on Messi's popularity and the surge in jersey sales.
Express your sentiment!
Insights
In the United States, Major League Soccer (MLS) has made an exception for Inter Miami, allowing the team to break longstanding league rules due to the influence of Lionel Messi. After joining the club in a record $150 million deal, Messi has significantly impacted the team's performance, scoring 30 goals in 34 games and helping them secure two trophies. His presence has also led to a remarkable increase in club revenue, reportedly quadrupling to $200 million annually. As a result, the MLS has decided to permit Inter Miami to release both new home and away kits for the 2025 season, deviating from the usual practice of alternating kit releases. This decision is driven by the surge in jersey sales, which have increased by 43% since Messi's arrival, making his No. 10 shirt the top-selling jersey for two consecutive years. The league aims to capitalize on Messi's popularity, especially as he approaches the end of his contract and potential departure from the club.
Contexts
Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami has sparked a remarkable transformation in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the club itself. Since joining the league, Messi has not only elevated the team's performance on the field but has also significantly boosted its commercial appeal. According to Jen Cramer, EVP of partnership marketing at MLS, the league has experienced a 17% increase in partnership revenue from 2022 to 2023, with individual club sponsorship revenue rising by 15%. This surge is largely attributed to the growing recognition of soccer's impact and the desirability of its fan base. Inter Miami's financial growth has been staggering, with the club generating $140 million in revenue in 2023 and projecting $200 million for 2024—more than triple its original target prior to Messi's signing. The club's valuation has skyrocketed to $1.03 billion, marking a 72% increase since Messi's arrival. Xavier Asensi, the club's commercial director, emphasized that Messi's presence has been a game-changer, stating that the revenue is expected to multiply fourfold in 2024. The excitement surrounding Messi has also translated into a surge in merchandise sales, which jumped 44% year over year, and a 15% increase in season ticket sales. Fans are eager to witness the magic of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, with season ticket prices reflecting the high demand. Inter Miami has sold out its season tickets for 2024 in record time, showcasing the willingness of fans to pay a premium to see Messi play. As the MLS aims to establish itself as one of the top leagues globally, Messi's impact is undeniable. With viewership records being shattered and new sponsorship deals emerging, the league is poised for a bright future, attracting not only fans but also other high-profile players eager to join the growing soccer phenomenon in the United States.
