President Donald Trump hosted Lionel Messi and Inter Miami at the White House on Thursday to celebrate the club’s first-ever MLS Cup title.
The ceremony followed a national security briefing regarding U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Despite the heavy diplomatic backdrop, the President took time to praise the 38-year-old Argentine icon, who recently led Miami to the 2025 championship and secured back-to-back MVP awards.
“My son [Barron] is a big fan of yours,” Trump told Messi during the presentation. “You could have gone anywhere in the world, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride.”
Trump, who noted he grew up watching Pelé, suggested Messi might even surpass the Brazilian legend.
To mark the occasion, Messi presented the President with a signed trophy ball.
The visit comes as a victory lap for the David Beckham-owned franchise before they face DC United this Saturday, and just months before the U.S. prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup.
