Major League Soccer (MLS) is facing backlash and financial consequences following the suspension of Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba. The two players were sidelined for one match after skipping the league’s All-Star Game — a move that has stirred criticism from analysts and sparked debate among fans.
Former Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper and football pundit Shaka Hislop voiced concern over the decision, saying: “The team will see a significant drop in expected attendance. That’s where it’s going to hit — in that home game. To the season ticket holders.” Similarly, ex-Liverpool defender Stevie Nicol weighed in, stating: “There’s always a circumstance where you have to make an exception. I think he’s 100 per cent wrong.”
Their criticism underscores a broader issue: Messi’s absence has measurable financial consequences for both Inter Miami and MLS as a whole.
Since Messi’s arrival, the club’s economic footprint has grown dramatically. Fueled by the Argentine star, Inter Miami’s revenue surged from $60 million in 2022 to an estimated $200 million in 2024 — contributing to a $1.2 billion valuation, according to Forbes. This growth has been driven by skyrocketing ticket sales, global sponsorships, record-setting jersey sales, and high-value media rights deals.
The ripple effects extend beyond Miami. MLS clubs collectively earned over $83 million from hosting Messi-led Inter Miami, averaging $6.45 million per away game. Los Angeles FC reportedly generated $17.3 million from two Messi appearances, while CF Montreal earned over $8 million from just one match.
Crowds have reached record-breaking numbers wherever Messi plays: 62,358 fans packed Chicago’s Soldier Field, 60,614 attended in Columbus — nearly triple its usual turnout — and Vancouver welcomed 57,837.
Messi’s suspension not only cost Inter Miami a key player but also highlighted just how vital his presence is to the league’s financial health and fan engagement.
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