The lobbying began long before Lionel Messi touched down in Miami, before his greatness ignited Major League Soccer, before ticket prices soared and windfalls swirled. MLS rode Messi-mania to a “transformational” 2023. But to capitalize in 2024, individual clubs realized, they’d need a home game against Inter Miami — and in a league with a pliable, unbalanced schedule, none were guaranteed.
So, as rumors warmed last spring, club executives began pitching themselves to the league office. Once Messi arrived, their advocacy surged. Some floated NFL stadiums; others promised splendid shows.