Inter Miami CF has concluded its championship season as the most valuable club in Major League Soccer (MLS), achieving a valuation of $1.45 billion for 2026. This marks a significant milestone, pushing the team ahead of Los Angeles FC, previously valued at $1.4 billion, according to a recent report by Sportico.
Growth Driven by Messi’s Impact Since 2023
The $1.45 billion evaluation reflects a 22 percent increase from Inter Miami’s 2025 valuation of $1.19 billion, when the club ranked second. Among MLS teams, only LA Galaxy, Atlanta United, and New York City FC have maintained valuations at or above $1 billion for two consecutive years. Meanwhile, Seattle Sounders FC and Austin FC are nearing that prestigious valuation threshold, with estimates of $915 million and $910 million respectively.
Inter Miami’s rise is closely tied to the arrival of Lionel Messi, who joined the club in July 2023. Prior to his signing, the team was ranked 10th in MLS valuations at $585 million, as noted by Spotrac. With Messi now signed through the end of the 2028 season, expectations are high that the club’s value will continue growing in the coming years.
MLS Landscape and Future Outlook
The evolving valuations underscore Inter Miami’s growing prominence in the league, fueled by securing one of soccer’s biggest stars. The rise reflects broader trends of increasing investment and popularity in MLS. Maintaining Messi on the roster could further enhance Inter Miami’s appeal to fans and sponsors, potentially leading to sustained financial growth and influence within American soccer.
