Messi and Inter Miami received honors from President Donald Trump after winning the MLS Cup 2025 title.
Inter Miami CF and superstar Lionel Messi made a special visit to the White House and were honored by U.S. President Donald Trump. The ceremony took place in the East Room to celebrate Inter Miami's MLS Cup 2025 championship – the first official title in the club's history.
Inter Miami clinched the title after defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final in December 2025. This success marks a major turning point for the club since Messi joined in 2023, helping to elevate the profile and appeal of American soccer. Messi himself also won the MLS Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive season.
During the White House ceremony, Messi and his teammates entered the hall alongside President Trump and the club's leadership. The Argentine star presented the President with a signature pink Inter Miami soccer ball and a commemorative club jersey. This was seen as a symbolic gift marking the team's historic championship.
Speaking at the event, President Trump praised Messi and Inter Miami extensively, commending their contributions to the growth of soccer in the United States. He also mentioned Messi's global influence on fans worldwide, regarding him as one of the greatest players in football history.
The ceremony was also attended by numerous notable figures, including MLS Commissioner Don Garber, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas, and several sports stars. Key players from the team, such as Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, were also present for this special visit.
Notably, this was Messi's first official visit to the White House, although he had previously been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom but was unable to attend the ceremony. This visit therefore became a memorable milestone for Messi personally and for Inter Miami after their successful MLS season.