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By Lawrence Agbo
United States President Donald Trump welcomed Argentine superstar Lionel Messi and his teammates from Inter Miami CF to the White House on Thursday in honour of the club’s 2025 Major League Soccer Cup triumph.
The ceremony, held in the East Room of the White House, celebrated Inter Miami’s historic season, which culminated in a 3–1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final.
Trump praised Messi’s influence on the team’s success and joked that the Argentine legend could even rival Brazilian football icon Pelé.
“I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pelé play,” Trump said. “I don’t know, you may be better than Pelé. Pelé was pretty good.”
Inter Miami players also presented Trump with gifts, including a No. 47 jersey from the club’s signature pink kit — a reference to Trump’s position as the nation’s 47th president. Messi handed the president a commemorative ball trophy during the ceremony.
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Trump used the moment to highlight Miami’s achievements during the 2025 season, noting not only their MLS Cup triumph but also a notable 2–1 victory over Portuguese club Porto in the Club World Cup — the first time a North American team defeated a European side in official competition.
“It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel,” Trump said.
During the event, Trump also singled out several players, including Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, rising talent Tadeo Allende and Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul for their contributions to the team’s successful campaign.
Speaking on behalf of the club, managing owner Jorge Mas reflected on Inter Miami’s rapid rise since its inaugural season in 2020.
“Our success is not only because of Lionel Messi, but these men standing behind you have changed the culture of football in the United States forever,” Mas said. “We can pla
y with the big boys.”
