Inter Miami are paying Lionel Messi between $70 million and $80 million a year, according to owner Jorge Mas. This figure includes Messi’s ownership share in the team.
Messi’s Contract Details
Mas said that the need for world class sponsors is driven by the expense of players. “I pay Messi — worth every penny — but it’s $70 million to $80 million a year. Across everything,” Mas said.
According to the MLS Players’ Association salary release, Messi’s base salary is $12 million. His guaranteed compensation, which includes bonuses amortized over the contract’s lifetime, is $20.45 million.
Last season, Messi was the highest-paid player in MLS. He ranked ahead of LAFC’s Son Heung-min, who made $11.15 million in guaranteed compensation, and Miami’s Sergio Busquets, who made $8.75 million before retiring at the end of the season.
Ownership Stake Boosts Messi’s Value
Messi’s deal with Inter Miami includes percentage ownership in the club. This significantly enhances the value of his contract.
Before Messi signed, Miami was valued around $585 million in 2023. Forbes valued Miami at $1.35 billion in its latest ratings this season.
While the size of Messi’s stake in Inter Miami has not been confirmed by Mas, MLS, or Messi, Mas’s estimates indicate it is worth at least $60 million per year, if Messi’s salary structure remains the same in his extension – which runs through the end of the 2028-29 season.
Previous Estimates of Messi’s Deal
Previously, sources indicated that Messi’s deal was worth between $50 and $70 million, depending on Inter Miami’s franchise valuation. As the valuation has risen, so too has the value of Messi’s contract.
It is unclear whether Messi received more equity when he signed his extension with Miami. This would further boost the value of his time in MLS.
Jorge Mas, his brother Jose Mas, and David Beckham are the primary owners of Inter Miami. Messi’s stake will activate upon his retirement, according to sources.
Additional Deals
Messi also has separate contracts with Fanatics and Apple. Compensation from these deals, and any arrangements with Adidas, is not included in his contract with Inter Miami.
- Messi’s annual compensation: $70-80 million (including ownership)
- Base salary: $12 million
- Guaranteed compensation: $20.45 million
Mas’s estimates indicate Messi’s ownership stake is worth at least $60 million per year if his salary structure remains the same.