Inter Miami unveils world-first Lionel Messi tribute at Nu Stadium ahead of historic debut

The countdown to the opening of Nu Stadium, Inter Miami’s new home, is nearly over. In just one week, Javier Mascherano’s team is set to play its first match at the venue against Austin FC.

With Major League Soccer on pause for the international break and final preparations underway for the club’s new stadium, Inter Miami made a major announcement Friday that centers on Lionel Messi.

Leo Messi Stand: A permanent tribute in Miami

Through its social media channels, Inter Miami unveiled a video revealing that Nu Stadium will feature a permanent tribute to Messi. One of the stadium’s stands will be named in his honor, officially becoming the Leo Messi Stand.

“First, scouts had their names. Then thousands of things carried names, jerseys, flags, murals, trophies, newborns, skin, reverence, fantasies, prayers, hugs, tears, shouts, and from today and forever, this stand will carry his name, ‘Leo Messi Stand,’” the club said in the video.

The MLS champions also confirmed that with this dedication, Messi becomes the first active athlete in the world to regularly play home matches in a stadium that features a stand named after him.

“A tribute built in the present”

In an official statement, Inter Miami emphasized that this tribute is different from traditional honors, which are usually based on past achievements. Instead, the club said this recognition reflects what Messi represents right now, while he is still actively shaping his legacy in Miami.

“Traditionally, tributes look to the past. They are built from nostalgia. From memory. This one is different. This is born in the present. From what is happening right now. From what you feel every time Leo steps onto the field. Recognizing someone is not always about closing a chapter. Sometimes it is about understanding that you are witnessing something unique,” the club said.

Where the Lionel Messi Stand will be located

Inter Miami also confirmed the exact location of the new stand inside Nu Stadium. The Lionel Messi Stand will include sections 117 through 121 in the lower bowl, as well as sections 217 through 223 in the upper level.

The club added that the area will offer some of the best views in the stadium and promised unique matchday experiences for fans seated there, including special surprises designed to enhance the atmosphere.

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