Inter Miami’s investment in Lionel Messi is showing strong returns.
In December, the Argentine star led the club to its first MLS Cup. With the 2026 season fast approaching, Messi has helped Miami secure another title.
Miami is now the most valuable franchise in MLS.
A report from Sportico on Tuesday reveals that Miami is valued at $1.45 billion, a 22% increase from last year. This also puts them $50 million ahead of Los Angeles FC, marking the first time in five years that LAFC is not in the top spot for valuation.
Despite being second, LAFC saw a 9% increase in value, reaching $1.4 billion. They have South Korea’s Son Heung-Min, another top player in the league. Messi and Son are the highest-paid players in MLS.
While this is positive news for Miami and Los Angeles, the overall economic health of the league may be a concern. The lowest 12 teams only saw a 2% average increase in valuation since 2025. Three clubs—San Jose Earthquakes, Vancouver Whitecaps, and CF Montreal—experienced a decline in value, according to the report.
The Whitecaps reached the MLS Cup final last year with German star Thomas Muller.
Sportico estimates the total value of all MLS clubs, including related real estate and businesses, at $23 billion.
San Diego FC, the newest team in the league, is valued at $765 million, ranking 10th in MLS.
The MLS season will start on February 21, featuring a key match between Miami and LAFC. This game has been moved to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to accommodate more fans.