Lionel Messi and Inter Miami have agreed to extend the Argentine star’s contract, ensuring he remains in Major League Soccer beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a source familiar with the matter. The deal will allow Messi, now 38, to continue competing at the highest level until and after the World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The extension is expected to be officially announced within the next two weeks, the source told AFP on Wednesday. The agreement would also mean Messi is set to finish his legendary career in the MLS, a league he joined in 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. His move to Miami marked a fresh chapter following two decades of extraordinary success with Barcelona, where he rose from the youth ranks to become the club’s all-time greatest player.
During his time with Barcelona from 2004 to 2021, Messi lifted the La Liga title 10 times and claimed the UEFA Champions League trophy four times. His departure to PSG in 2021 was marked by challenges, but his transfer to Miami reignited his influence on and off the pitch.
Messi’s impact in MLS has already been historic. In the 2024 season, he was named the league’s Most Valuable Player, even though Inter Miami’s playoff run ended earlier than expected. By 2025, he became the fastest player to score 40 goals in MLS history, underscoring his enduring talent despite his age.
On the international stage, Messi achieved one of the defining moments of his career by leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022. He has since expressed a strong desire to defend the title at the next tournament. Extending his career in MLS ensures he remains in top-level football leading into the 2026 competition.
For Inter Miami, retaining Messi represents both sporting ambition and global prestige. His presence has already elevated the club’s profile internationally and boosted the popularity of soccer in the United States. An extended stay guarantees that Miami and MLS will continue to benefit from one of the most celebrated players in football history.
With the upcoming announcement, Messi appears set to conclude his illustrious journey not in Europe, but in America’s fast-growing league, leaving a lasting mark on global football.
Sports
England Secure World Cup Spot After Dominant Win Over Latvia
England sealed their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 5-0 victory over Latvia at the Daugava Stadium in Riga on Tuesday night.
49ers Star Fred Warner Out for Season After Ankle Injury
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner, a four-time All-Pro and one of the NFL’s top defensive leaders, will miss the rest of the season after suffering a severe ankle injury during Sunday’s 30-19 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Former NFL Star Mark Sanchez Released After Indianapolis Stabbing
Former NFL quarterback and Fox Sports analyst Mark Sanchez has been released from an Indianapolis hospital and police custody a week after a violent altercation left him with multiple stab wounds and facing criminal charges.
Cardinals Fine Coach $100K After Heated Player Clash
Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon has been fined $100,000 following a heated sideline confrontation with running back Emari Demercado during Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans.
Ex-NFL Quarterback Mark Sanchez Charged After Violent Clash
Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez has been charged with felony battery following a violent altercation in Indianapolis that left one man seriously injured.
Eagles’ Landon Dickerson Leaves Game With Ankle Injury
Philadelphia Eagles Pro Bowl guard Landon Dickerson was forced to leave Sunday’s 21-17 loss to the Denver Broncos with an ankle injury, raising fresh concerns for a team already battling offensive struggles this season.
Sergio Busquets to Retire at End of 2025 MLS Season
Former Spain and Barcelona captain Sergio Busquets has announced that he will retire from football at the end of the Major League Soccer season in December.
Ekitike Apologises After Red Card for Shirt Celebration
Hugo Ekitike has apologised to Liverpool supporters after being sent off for removing his shirt in celebration of his late winner against Southampton in the League Cup.
Ghanaian Boxer Ernest ‘Bahubali’ Akushey Dies After Recent Defeat
Ghana’s boxing community is mourning the sudden death of Ernest Akushey, the 27-year-old fighter popularly known by his ring name “Bahubali.” He passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, September 23, 2025, just days after suffering a punishing defeat in the ring.
Kenya Wins 7 Golds, Finishes Second at World Athletics Championships
Kenya delivered a stunning performance at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, finishing second overall with seven gold medals and 11 total podium finishes.
Martinelli’s Late Goal Rescues Arsenal in 1-1 Draw with Man City
Gabriel Martinelli struck in stoppage time to rescue Arsenal and secure a dramatic 1-1 draw with Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Flyers Legend and Hall of Fame Goalie Bernie Parent Dies at 80
Philadelphia Flyers fans are mourning the loss of one of their greatest players, Bernie Parent, who has died at the age of 80.
Brock Lesnar to Face John Cena in WWE Wrestlepalooza Opener
Brock Lesnar and John Cena are officially set to face each other in the opening match of WWE’s Wrestlepalooza, creating one of the most anticipated starts to a wrestling event in recent memory.
Spain Warns of Possible 2026 World Cup Boycott Over Israel’s Participation
Spain has reportedly threatened to boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup if Israel qualifies for the tournament, marking one of the strongest political statements yet tied to next year’s global football showcase.
Kipyegon and Chebet Set for 5,000m Showdown After Gold Medal Wins
Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet are preparing for an exciting 5,000m clash as both athletes aim to secure a world double after already striking gold in their respective events.