Getty | Tom HindleMar 06, 2026 06:47+06:00
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami visit the White House following 2025 MLS Cup win
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were honored during a visit to the White House on Thursday afternoon, following an invitation from President Donald Trump. MLS Commissioner Don Garber was also present as the champions celebrated their 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final.
This marks the second visit from a multiple Ballon d'Or winner in six months, after Cristiano Ronaldo met with President Trump in November last year.
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The Invitation
Inter Miami were invited in accordance with the longstanding tradition of the President hosting championship-winning teams. The Columbus Crew were the last MLS side to attend, following their 2023 MLS Cup win. Notably, the LA Galaxy did not attend after their 2024 victory.
"We're honoring truly talented people," President Trump said in front of Messi and the Inter Miami squad. "'Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi.'"
Miami midfielder Telasco Segovia downplayed the political aspect of the visit earlier in the week: "We are going because we are champions from last season. I don’t get involved with politics, but I know it’s an important occasion."
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Donald Trump's Remarks
During the visit, Trump hailed Messi's soccer accomplishments: "Welcome, Lionel Messi, to the White House... I don’t know, you may be better [than Pelé]." He also commented on Inter Miami's championship campaign:
"Leo, you came in and you won, and that's something very hard to do, very, very unusual and frankly, there's a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know, because you sort of expected to win, but almost nobody wins."
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Mas Comments on White House Visit
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas highlighted the occasion's significance: "We can play with the big boys, we can play with the heavyweights. Our league can be one of the top leagues in the world. And it is this ability to dream, to persevere, to have no obstacles ahead of us, that we will continue to be successful. And hopefully, Mr. President, this is not our only visit here celebrating an MLS Cup championship."
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Messi's First Visit to the White House
The ceremony concluded with the team presenting a signed ball and jersey to the President. This was Messi's first visit to the White House. He had been invited by former President Joe Biden in 2025 to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom but was unable to attend.