In a landmark event at the White House on Thursday, March 5, 2026, President Donald Trump officially hosted Lionel Messi and the Inter Miami CF squad. The ceremony in the East Room was held to honor the club’s 2025 MLS Cup championship—a historic first for the franchise.
Ceremony and Dialogue
President Trump, currently serving his second term as the 47th President of the United States, led the proceedings by celebrating the team’s victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2025 final.
- Presidential Welcome: Addressing the team, President Trump noted, “It is my distinct privilege to welcome the world’s greatest player, Lionel Messi, and the 2025 MLS Cup champions to the White House.” The President drew parallels between the team’s success and his own experiences in business and sports.
- Geopolitical Focus: The visit occurred amidst a high-stakes environment in the nation’s capital. Before transitioning to the celebration of Miami’s championship, President Trump addressed the ongoing military situation involving Iran, briefing those in attendance on the current status of U.S. operations.
- Commemorative Gifts: The Inter Miami delegation, led by co-owner Jorge Mas and head coach Javier Mascherano, presented the President with a custom pink jersey featuring the number 47, a signed football, and a limited-edition watch to mark the occasion.
A Growing Cultural Footprint
The event highlighted the rapidly evolving landscape of professional soccer in the United States. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching this summer, the presence of global stars like Messi in the White House underscores the sport’s central role in American pop culture and its growing influence on the global stage.
Inter Miami continues its preparations for the upcoming weekend, with a match scheduled against D.C. United at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on Saturday, March 7.