Inter Miami and Argentine football icon Lionel Messi have reportedly agreed to extend his contract, ensuring his stay in Major League Soccer (MLS) beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to a source familiar with the deal, an official announcement is expected within the next two weeks. The agreement would see Messi, 38, remain active in competitive football until after the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The move would likely mark the final chapter of Messi’s illustrious career, with the World Cup on home soil for MLS considered a fitting stage for his swansong.
Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 following a turbulent spell at Paris Saint-Germain. His arrival transformed the club’s fortunes and boosted the profile of MLS globally. Before that, he spent nearly two decades at Barcelona, where he won 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.
In 2022, Messi crowned his international career by leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar. He has since reiterated his ambition to help La Albiceleste defend the title in 2026.
The Argentine forward has continued to impress in the MLS. He was named the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2024 despite Inter Miami exiting in the playoffs. Earlier this year, he became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 40 goals.
With the reported extension, fans will have the chance to watch Messi compete at the highest level for at least one more cycle, solidifying his status as the face of football in North America.
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