Inter Miami and Argentine superstar Lionel Messi have reportedly agreed to extend his contract so he remains active in Major League Soccer beyond the 2026 World Cup, according to sources close to the matter.
The extension would see Messi, now 38, continue competing at top level during and after next year’s tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. An official announcement is expected within the next two weeks.
Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 following a difficult spell at Paris Saint-Germain, but his most celebrated years remain those spent at FC Barcelona, where he developed through the youth system and made his name between 2004 and 2021.
During his time in MLS, Messi has earned accolades including the 2024 MLS Most Valuable Player award—even though his team was knocked out in the playoffs. He also became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 40 goals.
Messi was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup winning squad and has expressed his desire to try to retain the trophy in the 2026 tournament.