The US club "Inter Miami" has been declared the most valuable team in MLS.
Idman.Biz reports that, according to Forbes magazine's updated ranking, the value of the Florida representative is $1.35 billion (approximately 2.3 billion AZN). Lionel Messi's transfer played an important role in the commercial growth. The club has increased ticket sales, expanded sponsorship deals, and started profitable international tours.
The team's revenues have almost quadrupled – from $56 million in 2022 (approximately 95 million AZN) to $200 million (approximately 340 million AZN) at the end of last season. The Argentine star's contract has been extended until the end of 2028. It is also expected that revenues will increase further after moving to the Miami Freedom Park stadium with a capacity of 25,000 fans.
According to Forbes, the 10 most valuable clubs in MLS:
1. "Inter Miami" – $1.35 billion (approximately 2.3 billion AZN)
2. "Los Angeles" – $1.32 billion (approximately 2.24 billion AZN)
3. "Los Angeles Galaxy" – $1.08 billion (approximately 1.84 billion AZN)
4. "New York City" – $1.02 billion (approximately 1.73 billion AZN)
5. "Atlanta United" – $1 billion (approximately 1.7 billion AZN)
6. "Seattle Sounders" – $860 million (approximately 1.46 billion AZN)
7. "Austin" – $855 million (approximately 1.45 billion AZN)
8. "Columbus Crew" – $805 million (approximately 1.37 billion AZN)
9. "Cincinnati" – $800 million (approximately 1.36 billion AZN)
10. "San Diego" – $795 million (approximately 1.35 billion AZN)
Thus, Messi's influence is clearly felt not only on the field, but also in the club's financial performance.