Inter Miami Owner Reveals Messi's Massive Payday: "Worth Every Penny"
What's the price tag for securing one of soccer's most legendary talents? Approximately $80 million per year.
"The necessity for world-class sponsors stems from the high cost of elite players," Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas stated this week, as reported by Bloomberg. "Messi's compensation—completely justified—amounts to $70 to $80 million annually. All inclusive."
Mas refrained from revealing the detailed structure of Messi's Miami contract; nevertheless, based on the MLS Players' Association salary database published last October, the 38-year-old Argentine legend leads MLS with a foundational salary of $12 million and total guaranteed earnings of $20.4 million. These numbers were documented several weeks prior to his three-year extension with Miami and solely reflect MLS contract compensation. They exclude Messi's direct agreements with Inter Miami, including his ownership percentage and performance incentives resulting from a deal that designates him as a co-owner of the Miami franchise after retirement.
The projected $80 million yearly compensation from Inter Miami positions the eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient and World Cup victor as the globe's second-highest earning player, trailing Cristiano Ronaldo's estimated $230 million playing salary at Al-Nassr.
A Deeper Look at Messi's Inter Miami Contract and Total Earnings
A Deeper Look at Messi's Inter Miami Contract and Total Earnings
Messi first joined South Florida during summer 2023 through a two-and-a-half-year agreement valued at $150 million, equivalent to $60 million per year, encompassing his initial bonus and ownership share in the Miami organization. During this period, the Herons' leader guided the team to victory in the 2023 Leagues Cup and secured the 2024 Supporters' Shield championships.
The globally celebrated forward executed a three-year extension agreement on Oct. 23, securing his tenure with the franchise until the 2028 season, coinciding with Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park's inauguration and his 41st birthday. Within two months of finalizing his extension, Messi spearheaded the Herons to their inaugural MLS Cup championship.
Messi's complete annual income is roughly calculated at $130 million, per Forbes' yearly assessment from October, incorporating approximately $70 million in commercial revenue through his numerous sponsorship partnerships with companies like Adidas, Lay's and Mastercard. Ronaldo's comprehensive yearly income reaches an estimated $280 million, featuring $50 million from commercial activities.