Lionel Messi's White House Meeting With President Trump Sparks Major Speculation
Though unverified, sources indicate that Lionel Messi may be included in Inter Miami's delegation for Thursday's White House visit.
According to the Miami Herald, "Everyone" from Inter Miami's organization is anticipated to participate in the gathering with U.S. President Donald Trump to celebrate the team's 2025 MLS Cup victory. Given the significant ongoing global developments surrounding 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Trump's presence appears more guaranteed than Messi's.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient wouldn't be the first high-profile athlete to decline a White House invitation recently—nor would it mark his initial rejection of a U.S. Presidential offer.
Why Inter Miami, Messi Are Invited to the White House
Why Inter Miami, Messi Are Invited to the White House
It's standard practice for the White House to invite American sports teams following significant domestic or international victories. The gold medal-winning Team USA men's hockey squad met with Trump just last month after taking photographs on the South Lawn. Nevertheless, the women's hockey team declined their invitation.
Miami secured their invitation through the franchise's inaugural MLS Cup victory last December, when they overcame Thomas Müller's Vancouver Whitecaps, aided by two assists from Messi.
Regardless of Messi's attendance, merely accepting such an invitation carries political significance in today's climate. The Herons will be the first MLS team to visit the White House during Trump's second presidency after 2024 MLS Cup winners LA Galaxy remained on the West Coast. Columbus Crew was welcomed in the Oval Office by President Joe Biden following their 2023 championship.
Why Lionel Messi Snubbed First White House Visit
Why Lionel Messi Snubbed First White House Visit
Today, President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 great leaders who have made America a better place. pic.twitter.com/d610LtMoes
Messi previously had an opportunity to visit the White House.
Among 19 Presidential Medal of Freedom honorees in 2025, which he received for his healthcare and education contributions as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and through the Leo Messi Foundation, the Argentine superstar was invited to receive the award from President Biden on the year's first Saturday.
Despite being during the MLS offseason with no international matches scheduled, he couldn't attend due to scheduling conflicts.
"Messi expressed that he is deeply honored and considers it a profound privilege to receive this recognition but would be unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments," his representatives informed USA Today. "Messi valued the gesture and mentioned he hopes for an opportunity to meet Biden in the future."
While a Biden meeting is no longer possible, another president awaits Messi's visit.