IMiami experienced two very different chapters in its history: pre-Messi and post-Messi. At first, the club was labeled as the worst team in MLS, a project without direction, and seemed destined to become meaningless and just another club. But then the Argentine star arrived, and with him a new era began, full of trophies, fame and worldwide recognition.
The transformation was immediate and almost magical. The team moved from darkness to glory by winning the title and becoming the reigning champions. Beyond the victories on the field, Messi’s emergence sparked a phenomenon that transcended soccer itself, making the team the most valuable soccer club in the United States.
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Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami becomes MLS’ most valuable club
Since the Argentine star joined Inter Miami, the club’s revenue has quadrupled starting with the 2023 season, rising from $56 million in 2022 to nearly $200 million in the 2025-26 season. The boost created by Messi has propelled the South Florida club to the top of Major League Soccer’s team ratings.
According to a Forbes study, Inter Miami’s current value is $1.35 billion, making it the most valuable franchise in MLS, surpassing LAFC, which held the top spot for the past three years, for the first time.
Top 10 most valuable MLS clubs according to Forbes
To rank Major League Soccer franchises, Forbes examined a variety of data and public club financial information and spoke with more than 60 team executives, owners, and numerous other sources.
Inter Miami CF – $1.35 billion LAFC – $1.32 billion LA Galaxy – $1.08 billion New York City FC – $1.02 billion Atlanta United FC – $1 billion Seattle Sounders FC – $860 million Austin FC – $855 million Columbus Crew – $805 million FC Cincinnati – $800 million San Diego FC – $795 million
We look to the future confident that as long as Messi continues to play at the high level he has, Inter Miami will remain one of the most important clubs in MLS and Concaf.
