Lionel Messi’s big decision: Inter Miami future and 2026 World Cup plans revealed

Lionel Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs through the end of 2025—just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on U.S. soil—and all indications are that the Argentine legend plans to stay put in South Florida as he gears up for what will almost certainly be the final major international tournament of his storied career.

Lionel Messi poised for Inter Miami contract extension

Messi is thriving in Miami, and the feeling is mutual. The club is thrilled with its global superstar, and he’s clearly found a sense of comfort and belonging with The Herons. Against that backdrop, a contract extension seems less like a possibility and more like a formality.

Sources close to the situation have confirmed to AS that talks are already underway to keep Messi in pink and black beyond 2025. At this stage, there are no serious alternatives on the table—remaining in Miami is the clear priority for both sides.

Will Messi play for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup?

The motivation is clear: the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, is Messi’s ultimate goal. It would be his sixth appearance in the tournament—an all-time record he may share only with Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexican goalkeeper Memo Ochoa.

Beyond footballing ambitions, Miami has offered Messi exactly what he was looking for after leaving Europe: a peaceful, family-friendly environment with all the comforts of a cosmopolitan city—and the bonus of near-year-round sunshine.

Messi’s game-changing impact on the MLS

His impact off the field has been just as monumental. From booming TV ratings to skyrocketing sponsorship deals, Messi’s presence has been a game-changer for Major League Soccer and U.S. soccer as a whole.

He was the main attraction at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, drawing massive attention and proving once again that his star power is alive and well in America. Losing him now wouldn’t make sense—for Messi, for Inter Miami, or for the MLS ecosystem that has flourished since his arrival.

That’s why all parties are actively working toward a contract extension before year’s end. And barring any major surprises, Messi isn’t going anywhere.

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