Inter Miami Names Stadium Stand After Lionel Messi

The east stand of the club's new Nu Stadium will be called the "Leo Messi Stand".

Mar. 27, 2026 at 3:21pm

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Inter Miami has announced that the east stand of its new Nu Stadium will be named after Lionel Messi. The unveiling of the "Leo Messi Stand" will coincide with the club's first game at the new 26,700-capacity stadium on April 4 against Austin FC. Messi, who signed with Inter Miami in 2023, will become a "rare and unique case" in world sports by having a stand named after him while still an active player.

Why it matters

This move by Inter Miami highlights Lionel Messi's immense global star power and the club's desire to capitalize on his popularity to build their brand and fanbase. Naming a stadium stand after an active player is an uncommon honor, underscoring Messi's legendary status in the sport.

The details

The Leo Messi Stand will encompass sections 117 to 121 in the lower bowl and 217 to 223 in the upper bowl of the Nu Stadium. Inter Miami announced the new stadium and a naming rights deal with Nubank in 2024, moving from their previous 21,550-capacity Chase Bank stadium located 33 miles away. Messi, 38, signed with Inter Miami in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain and has led the club to a Leagues Cup title, an MLS Supporters' Shield, and an MLS Cup since joining.

  • Inter Miami announced the naming of the Leo Messi Stand on March 27, 2026.
  • The unveiling of the Leo Messi Stand will take place on April 4, 2026, when Inter Miami hosts Austin FC in the first game at the new Nu Stadium.

The players

Lionel Messi

A 38-year-old Argentine soccer player who signed with Inter Miami in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. He has led the club to a Leagues Cup title, an MLS Supporters' Shield, and an MLS Cup since joining.

Inter Miami

A Major League Soccer (MLS) club based in Miami, Florida that began play in 2020. The club is set to move into its new 26,700-capacity Nu Stadium in 2026.

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What’s next

Inter Miami's first game at the new Nu Stadium, which will feature the unveiling of the Leo Messi Stand, is scheduled for April 4, 2026 against Austin FC.

The takeaway

Lionel Messi's legacy continues to grow, as the legendary soccer player becomes one of the rare active athletes to have a stadium stand named in his honor. This move by Inter Miami underscores Messi's global appeal and the club's efforts to build their brand around the Argentinian superstar.