Inter Miami Tops MLS Valuations Thanks to Messi's Impact

The club's $1.45 billion valuation surpasses LA's LAFC as the highest in the league.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Inter Miami CF has become the most valuable franchise in Major League Soccer, reaching a valuation of $1.45 billion. This 22% increase over last year reflects the transformative impact of Lionel Messi's move to the club, along with key signings of Sergio Busquets and Luis Suárez. Under the leadership of club president David Beckham, Inter Miami has rapidly evolved from an expansion team to an international brand with global appeal.

Why it matters

Inter Miami's rapid rise in valuation signals a growing financial divide among MLS clubs, with established teams like LA Galaxy and Atlanta United unable to match the accelerated commercial growth in South Florida. This underscores how Messi's presence has fundamentally reshaped the economic foundation of the league.

The details

Inter Miami's valuation has surged by 22% compared to last year, enabling it to surpass Los Angeles FC, which had held the highest MLS valuation for four consecutive years. The signings of Messi, Busquets, and Suárez have rapidly boosted the team's global recognition and commercial appeal under Beckham's leadership.

  • Inter Miami CF was founded in 2018 and began play in 2020.
  • The club won the MLS title in 2025.
  • The $1.45 billion valuation was reached in 2026.

The players

Lionel Messi

Argentinian soccer superstar who joined Inter Miami in a high-profile move that transformed the club's fortunes.

Sergio Busquets

Spanish midfielder who joined Inter Miami alongside Messi, further bolstering the team's roster.

Luis Suárez

Uruguayan striker who also signed with Inter Miami, adding to the club's star power.

David Beckham

Club president who has overseen Inter Miami's rapid evolution from an expansion team to an international brand.

Los Angeles FC

MLS club that previously held the highest valuation in the league before being surpassed by Inter Miami.

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What’s next

As Inter Miami continues to cement its status as a global soccer powerhouse, the club's financial success and influence on the broader MLS landscape will likely continue to be a focus of attention in the coming years.

The takeaway

Inter Miami's meteoric rise to become the most valuable MLS franchise underscores the transformative impact that star power and strategic leadership can have on a sports franchise's commercial and financial fortunes. This serves as a testament to the growing popularity and economic strength of MLS as a whole.