Lionel Messi Makes Grand Entrance at Inter Miami Unveiling

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – After weeks of anticipation, Inter Miami CF introduced their new signing, Lionel Messi, to an excited crowd on Sunday at DRV PNK Stadium. Messi, the renowned soccer superstar from Argentina, recently signed a multiyear contract with the MLS club, making him the highest-profile signing since David Beckham joined LA Galaxy in 2007.

Beckham, now a co-owner of Inter Miami, expressed his immense delight at the historical moment. He reflected on the past ten years, during which he aspired to build a new MLS team. Beckham’s dream was to attract the world’s best players to South Florida and to contribute to the growth of soccer in the country. Standing amid the sold-out crowd, Beckham couldn’t contain his emotions as he welcomed Messi to Inter Miami, saying, “Bienvenido a La Familia.”

While the introduction event was slightly delayed by a two-hour weather interruption, fans braved the heavy rain and lightning in anticipation of witnessing Messi’s debut. The excitement further intensified when Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, Sergio Busquets, was also introduced as an Inter Miami player on the same day.

Beckham spoke highly of Busquets, considering him one of the most accomplished midfield players of his generation. The co-owner expressed his pride in having Sergio and his family represent the club, highlighting the reunion of Busquets’ partnership with Messi.

Although the hosts attempted to move the event along, chants of “Messi! Messi!” echoed persistently throughout the stadium. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas acknowledged the weather conditions before introducing the club’s new number 10.

As Messi took the stage, he briefly addressed the enthusiastic crowd. A special tribute played on the video boards, welcoming Messi to the United States. The occasion drew a star-studded audience, including A-list celebrities and athletes, such as Stephen Curry, Tom Brady, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, and DJ Khaled.

The event captured the collective spirit of Miami, as fans and players alike embraced the moment. Despite Inter Miami’s position at the bottom of the MLS rankings this season, this night served as a reminder that dreams do come true. Mas, Beckham, and over 20,000 supporters truly felt like they were rulers of the world.