Lionel Messi meets Donald Trump at White House after Inter Miami's MLS Cup win
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The Argentine superstar, widely regarded as one of football's greatest players, met US President Donald Trump for the first time during Thursday's celebration in Washington, where the team were honoured for their 3-1 MLS Cup final win over the Vancouver Whitecaps in December.
Messi contributed two assists in the final as Javier Mascherano's side secured the club's first MLS title.
Key takeaways
- Lionel Messi visited the White House with Inter Miami after winning the 2025 MLS Cup.
- Donald Trump praised Messi and compared him to football legend Pelé.
- Trump mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo, prompting a smiling reaction from Messi.
- Comments about Iran during the ceremony sparked criticism online.
- Messi is expected to play for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.
A traditional White House visit for champions
The ceremony followed a long-standing American tradition in which championship-winning teams are invited to the White House.Miami joined a list of previous sports champions recognised by the president, including the Columbus Crew, who visited after winning the 2023 MLS Cup.
The LA Galaxy, however, declined a visit following their 2024 title.
During the event, Trump welcomed the Argentine icon to the stage.
We're honouring truly talented people. Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi.Trump also revealed that his son Barron is a huge fan of the Argentine.
Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career - the most of all time.
You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride.
My son said, "Dad, do you know who's going to be there today? Messi!"
He's a big fan of yours. He thinks you're a great person.
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Shop Featured Deals (Fast Checkout)Messi, Ronaldo and the GOAT debate
The event quickly produced several viral moments, including Trump referencing Messi's long-standing rival Cristiano Ronaldo.Whilst speaking to the Miami squad, Trump joked:
[Barron] is a tremendous fan of yours, as well as a gentleman named Ronaldo... Cristiano is great.Messi responded with a smile as the comment prompted laughter among players and attendees.
Trump also reignited the football GOAT debate, referencing the late Brazilian legend Pelé, whom he had previously called the greatest player ever.
After meeting Messi, however, the president appeared to reconsider.
I shouldn't say this because I'm old, but I watched Pelé play. I don't know, you may be better than Pelé. Pelé was pretty good.
Controversy over comments on Iran
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the visit also sparked criticism online after Trump discussed the ongoing conflict involving Iran during the ceremony.The president spoke about US military operations alongside Israel, stating that American forces were continuing major combat actions against Iranian military capabilities.
Clips circulated widely on social media showing the Inter Miami squad applauding following the remarks.
Donald Trump casually announces more illegal bombing of Iran in front of the entire Inter Miami squad.
— Leyla Hamed (@leylahamed) March 5, 2026
Hundreds of children have been killed in Iran in the last few days.
Lionel Messi and his teammates respond with applause. Bizarre. pic.twitter.com/rT0E2tlm9L
Messi's life in the United States
Messi has lived in the United States since joining Miami in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.His move transformed both the club and the league's global profile, helping MLS reach new audiences worldwide.
The 38-year-old is widely expected to play for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
After leading Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, many believed Messi had played his final tournament.
However, recent reports suggest he intends to help the defending champions pursue another title.
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Read This Next →A landmark visit for Inter Miami
The White House ceremony marked Messi's first official visit to the presidential residence.Former US President Joe Biden had previously invited the Argentine forward in 2025 to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, though Messi was unable to attend at the time.
Thursday's event concluded with Miami presenting Trump with a signed jersey and football to commemorate their historic MLS Cup triumph.
For Messi, it was another notable moment in a career that continues to capture global attention both on and off the pitch.
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