Messi to the White House: Inter Miami to Visit President Biden in March 2024

Messi's White House Visit: A Sign of Soccer's Rising Influence in US Politics

Feb. 28, 2026 at 9:45am

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Inter Miami and Lionel Messi are set for a visit to the White House on March 5th, a testament to the growing prominence of soccer – or fútbol – in the United States. This invitation follows Inter Miami's historic 2025 MLS Cup victory and marks a significant moment for the sport, bridging the gap between athletics and American politics.

Why it matters

The upcoming visit is particularly noteworthy given recent political attention surrounding soccer. Donald Trump previously expressed interest in seeing Cristiano Ronaldo play in the US, but It's Messi who is now poised to visit the White House. This highlights a shift in focus and underscores Messi's unique ability to capture the American public's imagination.

The details

The trip to the White House caps off a successful South American tour for Inter Miami, demonstrating the team's widespread appeal. The club's success, spearheaded by Lionel Messi, has captivated fans in Peru, Ecuador, and Puerto Rico, showcasing the power of the 'Herons' to generate excitement and build a dedicated following. This momentum has clearly translated into recognition at the highest levels of government.

  • Inter Miami and Lionel Messi are set to visit the White House on March 5th, 2024.

The players

Lionel Messi

An Argentine professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Inter Miami CF and is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time.

Inter Miami CF

A professional soccer team based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida that plays in Major League Soccer (MLS).

President Joe Biden

The 46th and current president of the United States.

Donald Trump

The 45th president of the United States who previously expressed interest in seeing Cristiano Ronaldo play in the US.

Cristiano Ronaldo

A Portuguese professional soccer player who plays as a forward and is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time.

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What’s next

The upcoming visit to the White House is expected to further elevate the profile of soccer in the United States and showcase the growing influence of the sport in American politics.

The takeaway

Lionel Messi's visit to the White House, following Inter Miami's MLS Cup victory, is a testament to the increasing prominence of soccer in the United States. This event highlights the sport's rising influence in American politics and culture, as well as the economic and fan engagement opportunities it presents.