Messi and Inter Miami Honored at White House

President Trump celebrates MLS Cup champions at ceremony

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Lionel Messi and the Inter Miami soccer team were honored by President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday for winning the 2025 MLS Cup. The team defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps in December to claim the Major League Soccer championship.

Why it matters

Messi's move to the MLS and Inter Miami has generated significant attention and interest in the league, helping to boost its profile both domestically and internationally. The White House ceremony underscores the growing prominence of the MLS and its top players.

The details

The event at the White House celebrated Inter Miami's MLS Cup victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2025 season. Messi, who joined the club in 2024, was the centerpiece of the ceremony and gave a speech thanking the President and the country for the honor.

  • Inter Miami won the 2025 MLS Cup in December.
  • The White House ceremony took place on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Lionel Messi

Argentinian soccer superstar who joined Inter Miami in 2024.

Inter Miami

Major League Soccer club based in Miami, Florida that won the 2025 MLS Cup.

Donald Trump

45th President of the United States who hosted the ceremony honoring Inter Miami.

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What they’re saying

“It's an honor to be here at the White House and be recognized for our championship. I'm grateful to the President and the country for this wonderful celebration.”

— Lionel Messi (White House transcript)

The takeaway

Messi's move to the MLS and Inter Miami has helped raise the profile of the league, and the White House ceremony is a testament to the growing stature of American soccer on the global stage.