Inter Miami’s owner Jorge Mas has openly discussed the substantial financial commitment required to keep Lionel Messi at the club since his 2023 arrival. The Argentine star has not only elevated the team’s performance but also significantly boosted its off-field profile. Mas emphasized that supporting a player of Messi’s caliber demands considerable investment from top-tier sponsors to sustain the club’s operations.
Jorge Mas Details the Sponsorship Necessity for Messi’s Contract
In an interview with The Athletic, Jorge Mas explained why securing elite sponsorship deals is critical for the club’s financial health amid Messi’s high costs. He stated,
“The reason that I need to have sponsors and for them to be world class is because players are expensive,”
reflecting the immense expenses involved.
Mas further elaborated on Messi’s total yearly compensation, saying,
“I pay Messi – worth every penny – but it’s $70 million to $80 million a year. Across everything.”
This sum encapsulates the entire financial package, including wages, bonuses, and commercial agreements, underscoring Messi’s significant impact on Inter Miami’s budget.
Mas pointed out that Messi’s global appeal assists the club in attracting international sponsorships, which helps alleviate some financial pressures linked to retaining one of football’s greatest talents.
Breakdown of Messi’s Base Salary and Additional Earnings in MLS
Although the comprehensive cost of Messi’s contract reaches up to $80 million annually, his official base salary reported by the MLS Players Association is much lower, around $12 million. Including bonuses and guaranteed earnings spread throughout the contract, Messi’s compensation is approximately $20.45 million.
The rest of the financial weight comes from marketing deals, sponsorship collaborations, and revenue-sharing arrangements linked to his presence in MLS. These combined elements contribute to the total $70–80 million figure highlighted by Mas, illustrating how Messi’s contract extends beyond his playing salary alone.
Significance of Messi’s Deal for Inter Miami and MLS
The scale of Messi’s financial package demonstrates the extraordinary resources needed for MLS clubs to secure international superstars. Inter Miami’s ability to negotiate world-class sponsorships signals a shift in the league’s commercial landscape, potentially encouraging further marquee signings. However, the enormous cost also serves as a reminder of the financial risks involved in building teams around high-profile players.
Moving forward, how Inter Miami balances these investments with sustainable growth will be closely watched by clubs across MLS and worldwide, as Messi’s influence reshapes both the sport and business of football in America.
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said this week that Lionel Messi’s compensation amounts to about $70 million to $80 million a year, when including his ownership share in the team.
According to the MLS Players’ Association salary release, Messi makes a base salary of $12 million,… pic.twitter.com/cV75x2f0gc
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) March 7, 2026
