By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
Lionel Messi and his teammates from Inter Miami CF were honoured at the White House by Donald Trump following the club’s victory in the 2025 MLS Cup.
The ceremony in Washington celebrated Inter Miami’s historic championship season after the club defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the final to secure their first MLS title, with Messi playing a central role and earning league MVP honours.
During the event, Trump praised Messi’s impact since arriving in Major League Soccer and highlighted the Argentine’s ability to deliver success despite the enormous expectations surrounding his move to the United States.
“They come with great fanfare from other countries—everyone says how great they are—but they don’t always win,” Trump said. “This guy came in with tremendous fanfare, and he won. Leo you came in and you won.”
Trump also pointed to Messi’s global standing in football and his achievements with the Argentina national football team.
“Lionel Messi is the reigning World Cup MVP. You could have gone anywhere in the world but you chose to come here,” he said. “I don’t blame you, the weather is great here.”
In a light-hearted moment, the president asked those gathered in the East Room to weigh in on one of football’s greatest debates.
“Who is the greatest player of all time — Pelé or Messi?” Trump asked.
Members of the audience responded with “Messi,” prompting Trump to reply: “I agree. I think he is.”
Trump also reflected on the pressure placed on the Argentine superstar after joining Inter Miami.
“Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very unusual,” Trump said. “There’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know, because you’re expected to win — but almost nobody wins.”
The ceremony included remarks from Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas and other guests, while Messi presented Trump with commemorative gifts including a jersey and a customized soccer ball.
At one point during the event, Trump also made broader remarks about international security, saying: “The United States military together with the wonderful Israeli partners continues to totally demolish the enemy, at levels people have never seen before. We are destroying Iran’s missiles.”
The president concluded the sporting tribute by welcoming the Argentine legend to the seat of American government.
“It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before… Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi!”
Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, did not deliver remarks during the ceremony but appeared alongside teammates including Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul as the team celebrated their championship season.
The visit marked the first time Messi has attended a White House event, further highlighting the growing influence of soccer in the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
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