Lionel Messi generates nearly $84M for Inter Miami MLS rivals: Argentine superstar boosts tickets based on dynamic pricing

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner arrived in the United States during the summer of 2023 and immediately became the biggest draw in American soccer. Fans - including several celebrity guests - have flocked to catch a glimpse of the Argentine GOAT in action.

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With demand often outweighing supply, it has come as no surprise to find that fans are having to dig deep in order to watch the live Messi show. In some cases, prices of entrance passes have risen by over 1,000 percent.

That was the case when Messi visited the New York Red Bulls, with $45 tickets suddenly costing $496, while the Columbus Crew saw general admission prices of $35 soar to $421. The Red Bulls and LAFC both generated added revenue which extended into eight figures when playing host to Inter Miami’s travelling circus.

According to data compiled by Sportsmillions.com, the cumulative figure that Messi’s presence has generated - across MLS as a whole - is $83,923,982 and counting. Because of dynamic pricing, more than one million fans are said to have paid out the inflated matchday prices.

A spokesperson from Sportsmillions.com said: “Whether it’s $50 or $750 a seat, people are willing to stretch their budgets just to be in the same stadium as Messi. Seeing Messi in the flesh is not just a game anymore, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, a bucket list moment. Clubs know it, fans know it, and the numbers prove it.

“This is what happens when global stardom meets hometown demand. Fans aren’t just showing up, they’re paying a premium for the chance to say they saw the GOAT in person. At Sportsmillions.com, we track the numbers behind the teams and players, and this soccer player is one of a kind.”

Inter Miami are hoping to see Messi, who claimed MVP honours in MLS last season, extend his contract through 2026. Their domestic rivals will be eager to see that deal done, allowing coffers a long way outside of South Florida to be bolstered.