Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami will compete in next year’s expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which starts June 15, 2025.
And following Messi’s stunning hat trick performance in his side’s 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution, FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced the news.
Inter Miami broke the MLS regular season points record to claim the Supporters’ Shield for the best regular season; the match was played at Chase Stadium.
Lionel Messi to Lead Miami in Opening Match
Inter Miami and Messi will kick off the tournament at Hard Rock Stadium, a momentous occasion for the team, who will be representing the host nation at the event.
However, the MLS champions are determined through the playoffs in December, and the decision to include Miami as the host country’s representative is due to their consistent performance throughout the MLS season.
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The New-Look Club World Cup Gets a Boost
Lionel Messi, who was recently named the greatest footballer of all time, as revealed earlier by Sports Buddy, is expected to boost the profile of the 32-team tournament, with champions from continental confederations.
Confirmed! My Goat 🐐 maen di Fifa Club World Cup 2025 and opening match 🐐🥶😎😅 pic.twitter.com/xQxDjkoUPr
— Hans1009 (@Hans10091) October 20, 2024
Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich have already qualified alongside South American heavyweights River Plate, Boca Juniors, and Flamengo.
Messi’s participation will bring an element of excitement, with the Argentine poised to play against European club opposition for the first time since leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.
