The Messi Effect: Boosting Soccer, Real Estate, and Business in Miami

It’s hard to talk about Inter Miami these days without mentioning Lionel Messi. The soccer legend’s arrival has completely transformed the team, MLS, and even the real estate market in South Florida. If you’re a real estate agent, or just interested in the property market, Messi’s impact on Inter Miami and the entire sports landscape offers a fascinating look at how a superstar can drive growth in unexpected ways.

When billionaire Jorge Mas, his brother Jose, and David Beckham brought Messi to Inter Miami in 2023, it was a bold move for a team that had been struggling. Fast forward a little over a year, and we’re seeing the ripple effects of that decision. Inter Miami has become the most popular American sports team on social media, and its revenue has surged to $200 million—a fourfold increase, according to Mas. It’s not just about soccer either; Messi’s move has sparked a frenzy that’s lifting local businesses, real estate, and other sectors.

Inter Miami and the Messi Effect on Real Estate

For real estate agents in Miami, this surge in popularity means more interest from global buyers. Messi’s arrival has attracted international attention, and the increased exposure of South Florida is translating to heightened demand for high-end properties. With Inter Miami’s success, we’re seeing the emergence of a new luxury real estate market, centered around soccer fandom.

Developers are responding too. Inter Miami is building a new $425 million stadium at Freedom Park, which is expected to further drive up property values in nearby areas. And it’s not just Miami; cities across the country are preparing for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, building new stadiums and improving infrastructure. New York’s $780 million stadium in Queens is just one example, while other developments are springing up in soccer-friendly cities like Atlanta, where fans are packing stadiums in record numbers.

This is a trend real estate professionals should be paying close attention to. With new stadiums come new neighborhoods, increased demand for luxury housing, and even commercial opportunities in retail and hospitality. The question is, how long will the Messi effect last?

What Happens When Messi Leaves?

One concern for investors is the future: what happens when Messi’s contract expires in 2025? Historically, US soccer has struggled to maintain momentum when big-name stars retire. While figures like Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Thierry Henry gave short-term boosts to their respective clubs, MLS still trails behind more popular American sports like football, basketball, and baseball in terms of viewership and cultural clout.

But Mas and other team owners are optimistic. They’re betting that Messi’s influence will create a lasting legacy for the league. For real estate, that could mean continued investment in areas surrounding these stadiums, as soccer culture takes root in US cities.

MLS Growth and Real Estate Opportunities

Since Messi’s arrival, the value of MLS teams has skyrocketed, with an estimated $3.2 billion added to the league’s overall worth. Mas predicts Inter Miami’s value will climb to $2 billion by late 2025. And it's not just about star power—local fanbases are stronger than ever, and teams are investing in their communities.

For example, the New England Revolution is considering building a new venue in Everett, Massachusetts, while other teams are scouting South America, Europe, and even within the US for new talent. This influx of interest could continue to push up property values in key cities.

As a real estate agent, it’s worth watching where these new developments are happening. With soccer growing in popularity, there’s potential to tap into emerging neighborhoods around new stadiums, whether it’s in Miami, New York, or another soccer hub.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

Real estate is all about location, and with the Messi effect, the connection between sports and property markets is undeniable. If you’re working with clients interested in Miami or other soccer-friendly markets, now might be the perfect time to explore the possibilities. And as we inch closer to the 2026 World Cup, expect even more opportunities to emerge.

Whether Messi stays beyond 2025 or not, his impact has already set the stage for a soccer boom that’s influencing not just fans and players, but businesses and the real estate world as well. Now is the time to think ahead and position yourself in these growing markets.

For all your South Florida real estate needs, reach out to the Mastropieri Group to find the ideal home for you. Contact us today at 561-544-7000 to discuss how we can assist you in achieving your real estate goals. Whether you’re buying, selling, or looking for investment opportunities, our team is ready to offer expert advice and support to help you navigate the dynamic South Florida real estate market. Let us put our expertise to work for you and turn your real estate ambitions into reality