In a remarkable celebration of sporting excellence, Inter Miami’s historic MLS Cup triumph was honoured at the White House on Thursday, marking a milestone not only for the club but also for the growth of football in the United States.
According to international media, the event featured captain Lionel Messi presenting gifts to President Donald Trump, highlighting the global stature of the club and its players.
The reception underscored Inter Miami’s swift rise in North American football since its inception in 2020 and emphasised the growing cultural and international significance of Major League Soccer.
Messi entered the East Room alongside Trump and Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas, later presenting the President with a signature Miami pink football.
Trump also received a Miami jersey and a watch from Mas and head coach Javier Mascherano, symbolising the unique intersection of sports and diplomacy.
The occasion marked Messi’s first White House visit since joining Miami in July 2023, following his compatriot and longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo’s attendance at a similar event in November 2025.
Trump, addressing the gathering, praised Messi’s extraordinary achievements and remarked on the mutual admiration between the global icon and American audiences.
“Leo, you came in and you won, and that is exceptionally difficult to accomplish,” Trump said. “Almost nobody succeeds under such pressure, yet you delivered brilliantly.”
Among the other Inter Miami stars present were Luis Suárez, Tadeo Allende, and Rodrigo De Paul. MLS commissioner Don Garber attended alongside Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House World Cup Task Force.
Retired baseball star Alex Rodriguez and several members of Trump’s cabinet were also in attendance. Following the reception, Trump invited the team to the Oval Office, continuing the tradition of honouring championship teams at the nation’s executive residence.
Jorge Mas, speaking at the ceremony, highlighted Inter Miami’s transformative impact on American football. “We have altered the culture of football in the United States forever. Our league can compete with the world’s heavyweights,” Mas said. “This victory is the result of daring to dream, persevering, and overcoming obstacles a philosophy that will continue to guide our success.”
The MLS Cup victory, secured on 6 December 2025 with a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps, also saw Messi named league MVP for the second consecutive season, cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats.
The triumph capped a meteoric rise for Inter Miami, which also counts David Beckham among its co-owners, reflecting both strategic vision and international appeal.
According to international media reports, the White House ceremony not only celebrated a sporting achievement but also highlighted the growing globalisation of football and the United States’ increasing prominence in the international game.
