Fakayejo Paul
In a moment that perfectly captures the “Messi Era” of American soccer, Inter Miami CF arrived at the White House today to be honored for their historic 2025 MLS Cup triumph.
The squad, led by co-owner David Beckham and manager Gerardo “Tata” Martino, was welcomed by President Donald Trump in a ceremony celebrating the club’s rapid ascent to the pinnacle of U.S. sports.
The visit marks the first time an MLS team has been hosted by the current administration, highlighting the league’s surging cultural relevance following Inter Miami’s dominant run last season.
The Iconic Handshake: Messi meets Trump
The highlight of the afternoon—and the image already breaking the internet—was the meeting between Lionel Messi and the President.
Standing on the South Lawn, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner presented President Trump with a custom No. 10 Inter Miami jersey.
Witnesses described the atmosphere as “electric” but cordial. The President, known for his appreciation of “winners,” praised Messi’s impact on the South Florida economy and the global profile of American soccer:
“What you’ve done in Miami is incredible,” the President remarked during the ceremony. “You’ve turned a great city into a soccer capital. It’s a spectacular achievement for a spectacular player.”
A Season for the History Books
The White House visit is the final “victory lap” for a 2025 campaign that saw Inter Miami shatter records. After securing the Supporters’ Shield with the highest points total in league history, the “Herons” went on to defeat LAFC in a thrilling MLS Cup Final last December.
The ceremony also featured remarks from David Beckham, who spoke about the “dream” of bringing a global icon like Messi to the United States and seeing that vision culminate in a championship and a visit to the nation’s capital.
The Road Ahead
While today was about celebrating the past, the Inter Miami squad appeared focused on the future. Following the ceremony, the team is scheduled to fly directly to New York for their weekend clash against NYCFC, as they look to defend their title in the 2026 campaign.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming on American soil, this meeting between the world’s most famous athlete and the U.S. President serves as a powerful symbol of the sport’s unprecedented growth in the country.