Inter Miami become MLS' most valuable club at $1.45bn

February 11, 2026 • 0 • min read

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Inter Miami become MLS' most valuable club at $1.45bn

Inter Miami have officially become Major League Soccer's most valuable club, reaching a league-high valuation of $1.45 billion, according to Sportico's latest MLS franchise rankings.

The Florida-based side now leads a group of five teams valued at more than $1 billion, as total MLS franchise worth climbs to a combined $23 billion across 30 clubs.

Key takeaways

Inter Miami are valued at $1.45bn, the highest in MLS
Five MLS clubs are now worth over $1bn
Total league valuation stands at $23bn
Average franchise value has reached $767m
Inter Miami's value has more than doubled since 2023
Revenue at the club could hit $250m by 2026

Inter Miami's meteoric financial rise

Miami were valued at just $585 million before the arrival of Lionel Messi in 2023.

Since then, the club's valuation has surged by more than 140%.

Messi's signing transformed Miami's commercial appeal globally, driving:

Record sponsorship growth
Expanded international media coverage
Increased ticket demand
Merchandise sales worldwide

Revenue is projected to reach $250 million by 2026, a 75% increase that would make the club the highest earner in MLS.

The ownership group, led by David Beckham, has successfully positioned the club as the league's global flagship brand.

MLS' top five most valuable clubs

According to Sportico, the top five MLS clubs by valuation are:

Inter Miami - $1.45bn
Los Angeles FC - $1.4bn
LA Galaxy - $1.17bn
Atlanta United - $1.14bn
New York City FC - $1.12bn

LAFC previously topped the rankings but now sit marginally behind Miami.

League growth: Average franchise now worth $767m

The average MLS club is now valued at $767 million, representing a 39% increase compared to Sportico's 2021 valuations.

Collectively, MLS franchises are worth $23 billion - underlining steady growth fuelled by:

Expansion fees
Infrastructure investment
International player signings
Commercial partnerships

However, rising valuations do not automatically translate into equal financial strength across the league.

Growing financial disparity across MLS

Miami's $1.45 billion valuation is 3.4 times higher than that of CF Montréal, who are valued at $480 million.

Such disparity highlights widening financial gaps between top-tier MLS markets and smaller clubs.

Unlike the NFL or NBA, MLS does not yet benefit from large-scale national broadcast distributions.

Under the league's agreement with Apple Inc., teams reportedly net around $5 million annually after production costs.

For comparison, NHL teams reportedly receive around $40 million per year in broadcast revenue.

Ownership challenges in smaller markets

Despite rising franchise valuations, not all MLS clubs are attractive to investors.

Vancouver Whitecaps and San Jose Earthquakes have both faced reported difficulties in attracting buyers.

Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster revealed that dozens of interested groups reviewed the club's financial data - yet none proceeded with an offer.

We had like more than 30, almost 40 groups who signed an NDA and went into our data room and did a full analysis on our situation.

Not one single one is interested in buying even 1% of this club, because all of them think that our setup here, the market and the situation we are in is not something where you can invest.

His comments underscore investor caution in certain MLS markets where long-term growth potential appears limited.

What this means for MLS ahead of 2026

MLS is clearly expanding in financial stature, particularly with the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted across North America.

Miami's rapid rise demonstrates the commercial impact a global superstar can have on franchise value.

The challenge for MLS now is ensuring:

Competitive balance remains intact
Smaller markets remain viable
Broadcast revenue grows sustainably
Financial growth translates to on-field quality

Whilst franchise valuations continue to climb, the long-term health of the league will depend on broader financial distribution - not just headline-grabbing figures at the top.

FAQ

Why is Inter Miami the most valuable MLS club?

Inter Miami's valuation has surged largely due to the signing of Lionel Messi, which significantly boosted commercial revenue, sponsorships, ticket sales and global visibility.

How much is MLS worth in total?

According to Sportico's latest estimates, the combined valuation of all 30 MLS franchises stands at approximately $23 billion.

What is the average MLS franchise value?

The average MLS club is now valued at $767 million, reflecting a 39% increase since 2021.

How does MLS broadcast revenue compare to other leagues?

MLS teams reportedly net around $5 million annually from the Apple deal after production costs. By comparison, NHL teams receive roughly $40 million per year in broadcast revenue.

Has Lionel Messi increased Inter Miami's revenue?

Yes. Revenue is projected to reach $250 million by 2026, a 75% increase. Lionel Messi's arrival has driven sponsorship growth, merchandise sales and international exposure.

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