Inter Miami will pay a special tribute to Argentine superstar Lionel Messi by naming a section of their new stadium, Nu Stadium, the "Leo Messi Stand."
“Inter Miami CF is proud to announce the Leo Messi Stand, with the number 10 and our captain becoming part of a rare and unique moment in global sports: an active athlete playing in his home stadium with a stand named in his honor,” the club said in a statement on its official website.
The club added that this tribute is different from the usual, which are generally given as a form of nostalgia or to honor legendary players.
According to Inter Miami, the appreciation for Messi is born from the present moment and what he displays every time he steps on the pitch.
"Giving someone recognition doesn't always mean closing a chapter. Sometimes, it's about realizing you're witnessing something unique," the statement said.
Technically, the Leo Messi Stand will cover the stands in sectors 117 to 121 at the bottom of the stadium, as well as 217 to 223 at the top.
Since joining Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, Messi has led the club to numerous successes, including its inaugural Leagues Cup title, the 2024 Supporters' Shield, and the 2025 MLS Cup.
The 38-year-old also helped the team set a record for most points in a single MLS season.
Individually, Messi made history by winning the MLS MVP award in 2024 and 2025, making him the first player to win the award back-to-back.
In addition, the Inter Miami captain is also the club's all-time leading scorer and assist provider, with 82 goals and 53 assists in 94 games in all competitions.
Inter Miami is scheduled to inaugurate Nu Stadium on April 4 during an MLS match against Austin FC.
