Lionel Messi Honored at the White House by President Trump

In a historic ceremony, President Donald Trump welcomed Lionel Messi and the Inter Miami team to the White House, celebrating their 2025 MLS Cup victory. Trump praised Messi's decision to join Inter Miami and highlighted the significance of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. Messi, who previously received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, was honored for his contributions to soccer. This event marks a significant moment in sports history, as the US prepares to host both the World Cup and the Olympics this summer.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 6, 2026, 09:33 IST

A Historic Welcome for Messi

On March 6, in a notable event, US President Donald Trump hosted Lionel Messi and the Inter Miami team at the White House, celebrating their triumph as the 2025 Major League Soccer Cup champions, as reported by a news outlet.

During the ceremony, the Inter Miami squad gifted Trump a jersey with the number 47, symbolizing his position as the 47th president, along with a football and a watch in the team's signature pink hue.

Trump expressed his honor in welcoming Messi, stating, “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 Messi.”

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, which will be jointly hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, Trump commended Inter Miami's coach Javier Mascherano and other football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele, but he particularly lauded Messi and his team.

“Leo is the reigning FIFA World Cup MVP. You could have chosen any team in the world, and you chose to go to Miami. I don’t blame you. The weather’s extremely good,” Trump remarked.

The upcoming FIFA World Cup is set to take place in 16 cities from June 11 to July 19, marking the first tournament to feature 48 teams.

Looking forward, Trump noted that the US will be hosting both the World Cup and the Olympics this summer.

Argentina will enter the World Cup as the reigning champions of both the World Cup and Copa America.

Earlier, Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former President Joe Biden in January 2025, although he could not attend the ceremony due to scheduling conflicts.