Since Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami, the phrase “Messi-mania” has become a household term across the United States. Yet the fervour surrounding his arrival has gone far beyond frenzied stadium crowds and record-breaking jersey sales—something even club owner David Beckham may not have fully anticipated.
Messi’s influence has transformed the American football landscape almost overnight. Stadiums now regularly host packed audiences, including Hollywood celebrities, highlighting that football in the United States is no longer merely “soccer” but a major entertainment spectacle. Over the past two-and-a-half years, Messi has dominated both on and off the pitch, guiding a club that had never previously tasted major silverware to three significant trophies, including the 2025 MLS Cup.
The Argentine captain’s success has also significantly boosted Inter Miami’s commercial value. For the first time in MLS history, the club—nicknamed “The Herons”—has become the league’s most valuable franchise among its 30 teams. According to sports finance outlet Sportico, Inter Miami’s estimated valuation ahead of the 2026 season stands at USD 1.45 billion, equivalent to approximately BDT 17,400 crore. This surge has pushed them ahead of Los Angeles FC, now valued at USD 1.40 billion, who occupy the second spot.
In the past year, Inter Miami’s market value has risen by around 22%, far outpacing Los Angeles FC’s 9% growth. Such momentum reflects not only Messi’s on-field magic but also strategic club developments. This year, the team plans to inaugurate its new state-of-the-art stadium, further enhancing its commercial and infrastructural assets.
Below is a comparison of the top five MLS clubs by valuation:
| Position | Club Name | Valuation (USD Billion) | Approx. BDT Crore |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Inter Miami | 1.45 | 17,400+ |
| 2 | Los Angeles FC | 1.40 | 16,800 |
| 3 | LA Galaxy | 1.17 | 14,020 |
| 4 | Atlanta United | 1.14 | 13,680 |
| 5 | New York City FC | 1.12 | 13,400 |
Across all 30 MLS franchises, the average valuation now stands at USD 767 million, representing a 39% increase since Sportico’s first league-wide assessment in 2021. Combined, the total league value is approximately USD 23 billion.
Despite MLS’s rising prominence, it remains modest compared with the financial clout of other major U.S. leagues. Among the 154 teams in the five largest leagues, Inter Miami ranks 116th. By comparison, NFL powerhouse Dallas Cowboys are valued at USD 128 billion, while NBA’s Golden State Warriors are worth USD 113 billion.
As the statistics and commercial growth continue to impress, the on-field drama is set to resume. The 2026 MLS season kicks off on 21 February, with Inter Miami facing Los Angeles FC in a high-stakes opener that will showcase the league’s two wealthiest teams in direct competition.