US President Donald Trump hosts Lionel Messi and Inter Miami players at the White House after their 2025 MLS Cup championship victory.
The United States President Donald Trump has hosted Argentine football icon Lionel Messi and members of Inter Miami CF at the White House on Thursday to celebrate the club’s MLS Cup victory in 2025.
The ceremony recognised the team’s rapid rise and growing influence in American football since its formation in 2020.
Messi stood alongside teammates, head coach Javier Mascherano, and club co-owner Jorge Mas during the reception, which highlighted the club’s achievements both domestically and internationally.
Trump praises Messi’s impact on US football
During the event, Trump compared Messi with Brazilian legend Pelé, recalling the former New York Cosmos star’s influence on football in the United States during the 1970s.
“I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pelé play,” Trump said. “I don’t know, you may be better than Pelé. Pelé was pretty good.”
Trump also acknowledged the pressure that comes with Messi’s reputation as one of the world’s greatest footballers.
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“Leo, you came in and you won. There’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know because you’re expected to win,” he said.
Symbolic gifts exchanged
During the visit, the team presented Trump with a pink Inter Miami jersey bearing the number 47, reflecting his position as the 47th president of the United States.
Trump in turn praised several key players, including Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, and young talent Tadeo Allende.
He also made a subtle reference to former president Joe Biden, noting that no previous American president had the opportunity to formally welcome Messi to the White House.
Inter Miami’s historic achievements
Trump highlighted the club’s major victories in 2025, including their 3–1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the MLS Cup final.
He also referenced the team’s 2–1 victory over Portuguese giants FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup, marking the first time a North American club defeated a European side in official competition.
Club leadership credits team culture
Speaking at the ceremony, Jorge Mas said the club’s rapid success reflects the power of hard work and ambition.
Mas, the son of Cuban immigrants, said the club’s journey from its inaugural 2020 season to international success demonstrates that determination and sacrifice can lead to global recognition.
“Inter Miami’s success is not only because of Lionel Messi,” he said. “These men behind you have changed the culture of football in the United States forever.”
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