Inter Miami to Visit White House After MLS Cup Win

Lionel Messi's team invited by President Trump to celebrate championship

Feb. 28, 2026 at 5:36am

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Inter Miami, the 2025 MLS Cup champions, have been invited to visit the White House on March 5th by President Donald Trump. The invitation underscores the growing prominence of soccer in the United States, with the team's historic victory and the upcoming 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the US.

Why it matters

This White House visit for an MLS champion team signals the increasing recognition and importance of soccer in the American sports landscape. It also highlights the transformative impact of global superstar Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami, which has driven fan interest and revenue for the league.

The details

Inter Miami defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 to win their first MLS Cup title in 2025. The invitation to visit the White House on March 5th comes from President Donald Trump, who has been actively involved in promoting soccer in the US, including participating in the draw for the 2026 World Cup. This visit follows a similar recognition for Cristiano Ronaldo and the Saudi national team in 2025.

  • Inter Miami won the 2025 MLS Cup on December 7, 2025.
  • The team is scheduled to visit the White House on March 5, 2026.
  • Inter Miami has a match against D.C. United on March 7, 2026, just two days after the White House visit.

The players

Lionel Messi

Argentinian soccer superstar who joined Inter Miami in 2023, transforming the team and driving increased interest and revenue for MLS.

Donald Trump

The current President of the United States, who has been actively involved in promoting soccer in the country, including participating in the draw for the 2026 World Cup.

David Beckham

Co-owner of Inter Miami and a former MLS player who visited the White House with the LA Galaxy in 2011, highlighting the evolving status of the league and its players.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to recognize the growing prominence of soccer in the United States. Inviting championship teams to the White House is an important tradition, and I'm proud to welcome Inter Miami to celebrate their historic victory.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (White House Press Release)

What’s next

Inter Miami's visit to the White House on March 5th will be closely watched, as it could potentially include a appearance by global superstar Lionel Messi, whose attendance remains unconfirmed. The team's match against D.C. United on March 7th will also be a focus, as they look to build on their MLS Cup triumph.

The takeaway

The invitation for Inter Miami to visit the White House underscores the growing prominence of soccer in the United States, driven by the success of teams like Inter Miami and the upcoming 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the US. This recognition from the highest levels of government reflects the sport's increasing importance in the American sports landscape.