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FIFA’s Strategic Turn to Lionel Messi for Club World Cup Boost

Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA. 17th October 2024. MARCA America Award at CHASE Stadium in Florida, USA. Credit: Yaroslav Sabitov/YES Market Media/Alamy Live News.
© Alamy / Yaroslav Sabitov/YES Market Media

Lionel Messi’s involvement with Inter Miami CF is pivotal for the FIFA Club World Cup. His participation is expected to attract sponsors and broadcasters, enhancing the tournament’s profile. Controversy surrounds FIFA’s decision, raising questions about commercial motivations.

  • Messi’s role is seen as a strategic move by FIFA to elevate the tournament’s appeal.
  • His presence is expected to draw significant attention from sponsors and broadcasters.
  • Critics suggest FIFA’s motivations are driven more by financial gain than sporting excellence.

Messi’s Impact on the FIFA Club World Cup

Lionel Messi’s role in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup is seen as a strategic move by FIFA to elevate the tournament’s appeal. Messi, who joined Inter Miami CF in 2023, has become a central figure in Major League Soccer, transforming the league’s global profile. His presence is expected to draw significant attention from sponsors and broadcasters, adding commercial value to the event. This decision, however, has sparked controversy, with critics suggesting that FIFA’s motivations are driven more by financial gain than sporting excellence.


Messi’s impact on the pitch remains undeniable, as demonstrated by his recent performances, including a stunning 11-minute hat trick that secured Inter Miami’s spot in the Club World Cup.

The Controversial Inclusion of Inter Miami

Inter Miami’s qualification for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has raised eyebrows across the football community. The team’s success, led by Messi, includes winning the MLS Supporters’ Shield with a record points tally. This achievement has been pivotal in securing their place in the prestigious tournament. However, the decision to include Inter Miami has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that the move undermines the sporting integrity of the competition, suggesting that commercial interests are taking precedence.

Messi’s Continuing Impact on Global Football

Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has not only elevated the team’s performance but also significantly boosted the profile of MLS. His move to the United States marked the end of an era at FC Barcelona, where he and Sergio Busquets were the last remnants of a golden period for the club. Now, their presence in MLS serves as an inspiration for the next generation of players, as the duo brings star power and experience to American soccer. Messi’s rejoining the Argentina national team for World Cup qualifiers further underscores his ongoing influence in the sport, as he continues to contribute both on and off the field.

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