In a bold move that has transformed Inter Miami into MLS’s second billion-dollar franchise, owner Jorge Mas secured the services of soccer superstar Lionel Messi. The deal, which came at a high cost, has proven to be financially rewarding for the club, with revenue doubling to $118 million in 2023 and expected to surpass $200 million this year. The arrival of Messi has also led to increased subscriptions on the league’s streaming service and significant revenue boosts for teams hosting Inter Miami. With a current value of over $1 billion, Mas’s stake in the club has increased his personal fortune to $1.7 billion.
Mas’s journey to becoming a sports team owner was unexpected, as he initially had a passion for baseball before a knee injury altered his plans. After joining his family’s construction company and leading it through a period of growth, Mas eventually became involved in the sports world through his ownership of Inter Miami. His pursuit of Messi spanned multiple countries and meetings with the player’s agent and father, culminating in the Argentine star’s announcement of his move to the MLS team. The signing of Messi has elevated Inter Miami to new heights in terms of global recognition and fan engagement.
Despite the immediate success brought by Messi, Mas is aware of the challenges ahead as the 36-year-old star won’t be able to play forever. The urgency to plan for the future beyond Messi is evident, especially with a packed competition schedule for the club in 2024. Mas is confident that the club’s revenue streams will remain strong even after Messi’s eventual departure, as he strategically planned for the expiration of certain deals around the player’s arrival to secure more lucrative partnerships.
Looking ahead, Mas envisions Inter Miami attracting more top players to the team and aims to have between 12 to 20 of the world’s best players by 2027. The upcoming 2026 World Cup, to be hosted across North America, presents a prime opportunity for the MLS to grow its global presence. Mas is committed to supporting the league’s growth and success, recognizing the importance of strategic partnerships and revenue-sharing agreements to ensure the sustainability of the sport in the U.S. and beyond.
As Inter Miami continues to bask in the spotlight of Messi’s presence, Mas remains focused on building a strong foundation for the franchise’s long-term success. With a keen eye on attracting top talent and maximizing revenue opportunities, Mas is determined to solidify Inter Miami’s position as a powerhouse in Major League Soccer. The legacy of their iconic partnership with Messi will serve as a stepping stone for future growth and success in the ever-evolving world of professional sports.
