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Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were honored by President Trump.
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Miami won the Major League Soccer title by defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps in December.
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Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022.
During a White House ceremony, Lionel Messi presented President Donald Trump with a jeweled pink soccer ball in celebration of Inter Miami’s victory in last year’s MLS Cup.
Inter Miami triumphed over the Vancouver Whitecaps to win the Major League Soccer title, and Messi was named the league’s MVP for the second year in a row.
“Leo, you came in and you won. That’s not easy to do, and a lot of pressure is placed on you, even if people don’t realize it. You are expected to win, but not many do,” Trump remarked.
Messi, who joined Inter Miami in mid-2023, attended the ceremony with Trump. He did not speak, as Trump’s remarks shifted to political topics like the war with Iran and tariffs, while Messi is known to stay away from political discussions.
“You could have chosen any team in the world, but you picked Miami, and I understand why. The weather is great. Do you play golf in Doral?” Trump noted, referring to his golf course. “Thank you for taking us on this journey; you are talented and a great person.”
Other Inter Miami players present included Luis Suárez, Tadeo Allende, and Rodrigo De Paul. MLS Commissioner Don Garber was there alongside Andrew Giuliani, who heads the White House’s World Cup task force, as well as retired baseball star Alex Rodriguez and some members of Trump’s cabinet.
Inter Miami was the first MLS team honored at the White House during Trump’s presidency.
Messi, who is 38 years old, is expected to represent Argentina again this summer when the World Cup takes place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The upcoming World Cup has faced challenges, including international tensions and violence in Mexico following the death of a cartel leader.
Iran is scheduled to compete in the World Cup with a total of 48 teams and will play in California and Seattle during the group stage.
Trump began the ceremony by commenting on the conflict with Iran but did not discuss the World Cup.
Following recent military actions, Iran’s football officials expressed doubts about their outlook for the World Cup. Trump stated he was indifferent to Iran’s participation, saying, “I think Iran is a very defeated country.”
The consequences of Iran potentially withdrawing from the World Cup remain uncertain, as no team has ever backed out of the tournament in the last 75 years.
The World Cup is set to start on June 11 with Mexico facing South Africa in Mexico City.
During the event, Trump reminisced about watching Brazilian legend Pelé play and remarked to Messi, “You might be better than Pelé.” He then posed the question to the audience, “Who’s better?”
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas commented on the impact of his team in U.S. soccer, stating, “We can compete with the best. Our league can become one of the world’s top leagues. With the spirit of dreaming and persevering, we can continue to succeed. Hopefully, Mr. President, this won’t be our only visit here for an MLS Cup celebration.”
This was Messi’s first visit to the White House. He was previously invited by the Biden administration to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025 but couldn’t attend due to a scheduling conflict.
Inter Miami will stay in the area for a match against D.C. United on Saturday.