Lionel Messi’s recent announcement of his move to Inter Miami has not only sent shockwaves through the soccer world but also sparked renewed interest in the financial empire of this sporting legend. After declining offers from Barcelona and Saudi Arabia, the Argentine icon is set to bring his unparalleled talent to the MLS, a move that’s already causing ticket prices to skyrocket and generating buzz worldwide. But beyond the excitement of his next chapter, many are asking: just How Much Money Does Messi Have?
As of 2023, Forbes has ranked Messi as the second highest-paid athlete globally, and estimates his career earnings to date at a staggering $1.15 billion. This places him firmly among the financial titans of sports. His income streams are as diverse as his talents on the field, extending far beyond his lucrative soccer contracts. Let’s delve into the various sources that contribute to Lionel Messi’s immense wealth.
Messi’s Net Worth: A Billion-Dollar Baller?
While pinpointing an exact net worth for a figure like Lionel Messi is challenging and figures vary across estimations, the consensus is clear: Messi is a billionaire in the making, if not already there. His wealth accumulation is a testament to his sustained excellence in soccer, coupled with savvy business ventures and endorsements. The bulk of his fortune originates from his career as a professional soccer player, where his on-field brilliance translates into massive contracts and bonuses.
Earnings on the Pitch: Soccer Contracts
Messi’s journey to financial stardom began on the soccer field. His exceptional skills have commanded top salaries at every stage of his career, starting from his early days at FC Barcelona to his recent move to Inter Miami.
FC Barcelona Years
For 17 glorious years, Messi was the centerpiece of FC Barcelona. During his tenure, he not only became a club legend but also one of the highest-earning players in the sport. Leaked contract details revealed that in his later years at Barcelona, Messi was earning up to $165 million annually, according to Forbes. This figure encompassed his base salary, bonuses, and image rights, reflecting his immense value to the club.
Paris Saint-Germain Stint
In 2021, Messi embarked on a new chapter, joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal. While the move itself was a major sporting event, the financial details were equally significant. Forbes estimated his annual salary at PSG to be around $32.6 million. Although a step down from his peak Barcelona earnings, it still positioned him among the highest-paid players in the world.
Inter Miami Deal
Now, at Inter Miami, Messi’s contract is poised to be groundbreaking for MLS. Reportedly valued between $125 million and $150 million, as per the Miami Herald, this deal isn’t just about salary and bonuses. It includes equity in the team, offering Messi a stake in the club’s future financial success. Furthermore, major MLS sponsors like Apple and Adidas are reportedly crafting separate deals with Messi, potentially involving revenue sharing from MLS Season Pass subscriptions on AppleTV+ and profit-sharing arrangements with Adidas related to increased sales attributed to Messi’s presence in MLS, as mentioned by The Athletic and FastCompany.
Off-Field Fortune: Endorsements and Business Ventures
Beyond his substantial soccer salaries, a significant portion of Messi’s wealth is derived from his off-field endeavors. His global brand appeal makes him a highly sought-after endorser, and he has also ventured into various business initiatives.
Lucrative Endorsement Deals
Messi’s endorsement portfolio reads like a who’s who of global brands. He has long-standing partnerships with giants like Adidas, PepsiCo, and Budweiser. His lifetime deal with Adidas is particularly noteworthy, ensuring a continuous revenue stream. In 2022 alone, Forbes estimates that Messi earned $65 million from endorsements and other business ventures. His move to Inter Miami is also expected to boost his endorsement earnings further, especially with Adidas involved in his deal with the MLS club.
Socios Partnership
Venturing into the digital realm, Messi partnered with blockchain-based fan engagement platform Socios in March 2022. This deal reportedly earns him an estimated $20 million annually, according to Forbes. This signifies Messi’s ability to adapt to new trends and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the tech and fan engagement space.
Messi Clothing Brand & Store
Expanding his brand beyond endorsements, Messi launched his own clothing line, simply named “Messi.” He further solidified this venture by opening a retail store, “The Messi Store,” in Barcelona. This foray into fashion retail demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit and desire to build a lasting brand identity beyond his soccer career.
Real Estate Portfolio & MIM Hotels
Messi’s investments extend into tangible assets, notably real estate and hospitality. He owns a sprawling real estate portfolio with properties in Spain, Argentina, and the United States. His family home near Barcelona, estimated at $7 million, has been his base for years, as reported by Architectural Digest. He also invested around $4 million in a mansion in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, and acquired an $11 million home in Ibiza. Furthermore, since 2017, Messi has been the owner of MIM Hotels, a hotel chain operated by Majestic Hotel Group and managed by his brother. With locations in popular Spanish destinations like Mallorca, Ibiza, Sitges, and Baqueira, MIM Hotels adds another layer to his diverse investment portfolio.
Conclusion
So, how much money does Messi have? While the exact figure remains an estimate, it’s clear that Lionel Messi’s wealth is in the hundreds of millions, potentially reaching billionaire status when considering his assets and future earnings. His income is not solely reliant on his soccer contracts but is strategically diversified across endorsements, business ventures, real estate, and hospitality. As he embarks on his Inter Miami adventure, both on and off the field, Lionel Messi’s financial trajectory remains firmly on an upward curve, cementing his status as not just a soccer icon, but a global financial powerhouse.
