• Lionel Messi has extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028.
• The agreement allows him to play in a new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, set to open soon.
• Messi led Inter Miami in scoring this season with 29 goals.
• Inter Miami will start its playoff journey against Nashville SC in the MLS Cup.
• This move marks a significant boost for Major League Soccer in North America.

Lionel Messi has officially extended his contract with MLS club Inter Miami, ensuring his presence in the league until the end of the 2028 season. The extension was announced just before the team's playoff opener against Nashville SC. This agreement is seen as a major development for not only Messi but also for the growth and visibility of the league, especially with the upcoming World Cup being hosted in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico next year, according to Reuters, Africanews, and Al Jazeera.

The contract extension marks not only a crucial development for Messi but also enhances the visibility of Inter Miami as the club prepares to move into its new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, next year. Messi expressed his excitement about continuing his project with the club, stating that it has become a "beautiful reality" and he has been very happy since his arrival in Miami, according to Africanews and Al Jazeera.

This season, Messi led the league with an impressive 29 goals, setting records with multiple goal games and solidifying his status as one of the most influential players in the league. His performance has markedly increased ticket sales and global interest in MLS, reflecting his significant impact since joining Inter Miami in 2023, according to Reuters, Africanews, and Al Jazeera.

As Inter Miami gears up for its playoff matches, the club's confidence is buoyed by Messi’s scoring prowess and leadership on the field. The team will face Nashville SC, with whom they have maintained a strong competitive record since Messi joined. This backdrop of a decisive playoff matchup adds to the sense of urgency surrounding Messi’s extended commitment to the club, according to Al Jazeera and Africanews.