A rare clause in Messi's contract with Inter Miami

Messi's contract with Inter Miami draws attention due to a seldom-mentioned clause, opening the possibility of shaping a long-term bond between the Argentine superstar and the club.

The influence of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami is not only reflected in stadiums always packed with spectators, intense global media attention, or impressive commercial growth. However, beyond the stories of goals and titles, the financial structure within his contract also attracts special interest.

Messi remains the highest-paid player in MLS, with a base salary reportedly around $12 million and guaranteed total earnings exceeding $20 million annually. Nevertheless, the Argentine superstar's agreement is not solely about salary. According to Jorge Mas, Messi's total annual income could actually range from $70 to $80 million.

Yet, the most noteworthy detail in this contract is not found in any salary table. Within the agreement's structure, there is a special clause that opens the possibility for Messi to own a share of the club he plays for, something very few players have ever received in their careers.

When Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, his contract is said to include a clause allowing him to hold a portion of the team's equity after retiring, according to information from The Athletic.

Currently, Inter Miami is owned by businessmen Jorge Mas, Jose Mas, and former England star David Beckham. However, this clause opens the opportunity for Messi to join the club's ownership group in the future.

The specific equity percentage Messi could receive has never been officially disclosed by the club or MLS. Nevertheless, some leaders involved in the organization indicated that the value associated with this ownership right could reach at least around $60 million annually, depending on how the contract is structured and the extension terms lasting until the end of the 2028/29 season.

This means Messi's time playing in MLS could bring him value far exceeding his regular playing salary. Instead of only receiving income while wearing Inter Miami's jersey, the Argentine football icon also has the opportunity to become a long-term shareholder of the club after retirement.

Inter Miami's financial context partly explains why the ownership clause in Messi's contract is highly valued. Before his arrival in South Florida, the club's value in 2023 was estimated at around $585 million.

Since then, the club's global influence and commercial appeal have grown strongly. According to recent estimates by Forbes, Inter Miami's current value has reached approximately $1.35 billion, reflecting a boom in sponsorships, jersey sales, and international fan interest following Messi's arrival.

This substantial increase implies that any equity share tied to Messi's contract could become increasingly valuable over time. In fact, this special clause opens the possibility for him to remain connected to Inter Miami's long-term development future, even after his playing career ends.