Watching him play on his US debut might be as expensive as a ticket to see Lionel Messi play. Tickets for his anticipated Leagues Cup debut for Inter Miami on Friday are selling for as much as Ksh.15.6 million ($110,000), according to a search on the ticket exchange Vivid Seats. One of the most expensive ticket prices for an MLS team ever.
Prices for some seats soared after the soccer superstar officially signed with the Major League Soccer team on Saturday in a deal reported to be worth between $50 to $60 million per year.
However, there are significantly less expensive options for Friday's game. According to a Vivid Seats representative, the average cost is $487 (Ksh. 69,000), and some supporters are traveling nearly 700 miles (1126 kilometers) to watch the game against the Mexican team Cruz Azul. About half of money was spent on tickets to FC Barcelona vs. Inter Miami's League Cup match from the previous season.
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Messi's much-anticipated MLS debut on August 20 against Charlotte is drawing considerable attention, with ticket prices averaging around $288, as reported by Vivid Seats. These prices have skyrocketed by nearly 900% since early June when rumors first surfaced about Messi's potential move to the US. Notably, ticket prices for Inter Miami, who currently occupy the last position in the standings, have also experienced a significant surge of approximately 700% since the speculation began. The excitement surrounding Messi's arrival and the potential impact on Inter Miami's performance have undoubtedly contributed to the remarkable increase in ticket demand and prices.
Messi, 36, is one of the most decorated athletes ever, winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or award seven times and was part of the World Cup-winning Argentinian side last year. His deal includes an option for part-ownership of the club and a cut of the revenue from new subscribers to Apple TV's MLS Season Pass streaming service, according to multiple reports.
In an unveiling event Sunday, Messi said he's "very excited" to be in Miami. "I come here with the same desire to compete, desire to win and help the club to continue to grow," he told a packed stadium.
"Messi mania" extends beyond the field, too.
Hard Rock Cafe unveiled last week the "Messi Chicken Sandwich," which is a crispy Milanese-style fried chicken breast that's topped with melted provolone. The sandwich is now on sale at its hotels and restaurants.
