MIAMI — Lionel Messi was honored with the key to the city of Miami by Mayor Francis Suarez on Wednesday evening, following his address at the America Business Forum held at Kaseya Center. “It has been my desire to present this key to you for all that you have accomplished for our magnificent city, our nation, and the world of football. Thank you,” Suarez expressed. In related news, Miami’s Suárez was recently suspended for an altercation involving Nashville’s Nájar. Messi joined Inter Miami on July 15, 2023, making history as he helped the club secure its first trophy shortly after his debut with a victory in the inaugural Leagues Cup. Since then, he has driven Inter Miami to win the 2024 Supporters’ Shield and has set the record for the most points in a single MLS campaign. “I want to share a few words about our captain, our number 10. This is a small gift from this city, which has endeared itself to all of us,” remarked Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas. “This welcome extends not just to you but also to your wife Antonela and your beautiful family, ensuring you always feel at home here.” On an individual level, Messi claimed the 2024 MLS MVP title and the 2025 Golden Boot, and is a finalist for the 2025 MLS MVP award. Although his initial contract with the club is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, the 38-year-old recently committed to a three-year extension, keeping him in South Florida through the 2028 MLS season. “Thank you; I am honored by this recognition,” Messi stated. “As I mentioned earlier, we feel greatly loved, thankful, and happy to live in this city. Receiving this distinction is a tremendous honor, so thank you once again.” Previously, Messi discussed the challenges he faced during his departure from Barcelona, detailing the difficulties of transitioning between life in Spain and France with Paris Saint-Germain before ultimately making his way to MLS. “The truth is, moving to Paris was tough because we had lived in Barcelona our whole lives. We were very happy there—family, the kids, we had everything we needed. We grew up there. “I left when I was 13; that has been my entire life. My wife first arrived in the city at 20 or 21. It’s never easy to adjust and adapt. However, we managed to settle in well, as did the kids and my wife. “But I wasn’t enjoying my football or daily life for several reasons, partly because everything was new and very different from what I was accustomed to.” After a two-year tenure with PSG, Messi announced his surprising move to Inter Miami. “It was a family decision; we chose to pursue my professional career in Miami. Making that choice meant a lot—being able to select where you want to be significantly eases the transition. “Since arriving in Miami, it has been spectacular. Living in this city for the first time is truly incredible. The way everyone has treated us from day one has been remarkable, and today is yet another example of the warm welcome I continue to receive.” Messi spoke on the same day that Inter Miami revealed its new stadium near Miami International Airport has reached a significant construction milestone, with the final beams for the stadium canopy now being raised. “I am content here, and I am very happy to continue,” he added. “I am eager for the stadium to be completed so I can play here.” Inter Miami is set to face Nashville SC in the decisive game of the best-of-three Round One playoff series on Saturday night at their current home, Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. This report incorporates information from The Associated Press.
