Lionel Messi has had a big impact since he arrived in MLS in July.
On the pitch, the Argentine has produced a series of match-winning performances, with 14 goals/assists so far, helping Inter Miami win their first ever trophy, the Leagues Cup.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has made a similarly big impression off the pitch. Here’s the ‘Messi Effect’ in numbers:
– All games have been sold out since Messi’ arrival, with ticket prices rising over 1,500% ($29 to $442) as fans look to catch a glimpse of the Argentine in action. Inter Miami previously had the lowest average attendance in MLS
– Inter Miami are forecasting record revenues in 2024, with figures set to surpass $200m (the largest sum ever generated by a MLS franchise)
– Jorge Mas, Inter Miami owner, has alluded to a franchise valuation of close to $1bn
– MLS Season Pass subscribers on Apple TV+ have more than doubled since Messi joined Inter Miami in July
– Inter Miami’s social following quadrupled (1m to 4.5m) over the weekend of Messi’s arrival
– Plans have been accelerated for Miami Freedom Park, a $1bn construction project for a new stadium complex
– A wave of positive global PR as sports and entertainment icons, including Kim Kardashian, Lebron James and Serena Williams, have attended Inter Miami matches
Impressive stats…and only the beginning!
To find out more, get in touch with the SportQuake team