Messi's Inter Miami Eyes Historic Copa Libertadores Entry: The Shocking Path That Could Make It Happen
Inter Miami proprietor Jorge Mas states it would be his "aspiration" to witness the team and Lionel Messi compete in the Copa Libertadores, revealing he has engaged in discussions with CONMEBOL regarding this prospect.
Typically exclusive to South America's elite clubs, the Copa Libertadores welcomed Liga MX teams as guests from 1998 through 2016. Although no Liga MX club claimed victory, they made significant impacts—Tigres UANL advanced to the championship match in 2015, following Cruz Azul and Chivas Guadalajara who achieved similar feats in 2001 and 2010, respectively.
Over the past decade, however, no Concacaf representatives have participated in the tournament, and MLS franchises have never received invitations—making the Concacaf Champions Cup the premier annual trophy available for conquest.
"It's an aspiration. Certainly, I've engaged in discussions with CONMEBOL regarding Copa Libertadores participation," Mas informed journalists during his inaugural 2026 media session. "Historical precedent exists, as Mexican teams have previously competed in the Libertadores."
"I state this openly. I have expressed this within MLS circles. I believe MLS champions, alongside Liga MX winners, merit inclusion," Mas continued. "I understand these matters involve Concacaf and CONMEBOL negotiations, but I think we can further develop football throughout the hemisphere. Including North American and Mexican teams would enhance the competition's quality."
Primary concerns include logistics, expenses, and starting in 2025, FIFA Club World Cup qualification berths, with the upcoming tournament scheduled for 2029. If Miami or another MLS/Concacaf squad wins the Copa Libertadores, no established framework exists for their tournament qualification.
Inter Miami Set 2026 Goals
Inter Miami Set 2026 Goals
Though Copa Libertadores participation remains Mas and Inter Miami's future ambition, immediate priorities take precedence as they prepare for the 2026 campaign, featuring the April debut of their new Miami Freedom Park stadium.
Shortly after capturing MLS Cup in December 2025, Mas and co-proprietor David Beckham emphasized that securing the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup represents their primary objective. Simultaneously, they aim to retain MLS Cup while pursuing a second Supporters' Shield and Leagues Cup triumph.
Should any franchise be positioned to genuinely contend for all available silverware, it would be the Herons. They have secured Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez on new deals, acquired 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair via transfer, recruited former Premier League and La Liga defender Sergio Reguilón, and are finalizing Tadeo Allende's return.
Mas also verified reports of Miami's ongoing talks with Rayados de Monterrey regarding Mexico international forward Germán Berterame, hoping to finalize his acquisition before their season opener against LAFC on February 22.