Messi and Inter Miami Visit Trump at the White House

President Donald Trump welcomed Lionel Messi and Inter Miami to the White House on Thursday, March 5, 2026, to celebrate the team’s 2025 MLS Cup title. The visit included a lengthy discourse from President Trump on the ongoing conflict in Iran.

A Champion’s Welcome, Overshadowed by Politics

The Inter Miami squad was honored at the White House’s East Room, with Messi and club owner Jorge Mas flanking President Trump. The event followed a day of political activity for Trump, including the removal of Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem from her position. Trump began by emphasizing his admiration for champions and winners, before shifting focus to the military situation and the conflict with Iran.

“We like champions, we like winners,” Trump stated, before dedicating several minutes to discussing the military situation. “The U.S. Military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy far ahead of schedule,” he added. “We are destroying more of Iran’s missiles and drone capability every single hour … We desire to fight now more than they do. We’ve had 47 years, depending on the way you count it, 47 years of horror with this group.”

Messi and Trump Share the Stage

Eventually, Trump turned his attention to Inter Miami’s visit, mentioning that his son, Barron, had met Messi earlier in the day. He compared Messi to Brazilian legend Pelé, prompting a question to those in attendance about who was the greater player. Trump recalled watching Pelé play for the New York Cosmos in the 1970s.

Inter Miami secured their first MLS Cup win by defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps in December 2025.

A Customary Visit with a Political Backdrop

The occasion drew parallels to Juventus’ White House visit during the Club World Cup, where U.S. Internationals Tim Weah and Weston McKennie were present. Inter Miami midfielder Telasco Segovia acknowledged the political climate but emphasized the team’s focus on honoring their championship. “We are going because we are champions from last season,” Segovia said. “I don’t get involved with politics, but I know it’s an vital occasion.”

Gift and Recognition

Following the ceremony, Inter Miami presented President Trump with a jersey bearing his name and the number 47. Although Messi, Luis Suarez and managing owner Jorge Mas attended, franchise owner David Beckham was not present, as he was supporting his son, Cruz, at a performance in Manchester, UK.

Trump’s Previous Soccer Honors

This visit marks the second time President Trump has hosted a soccer icon at the White House, having previously welcomed Cristiano Ronaldo.

Sources: The New York Times, Miami Herald, USA Today, BBC Sport