Inter Miami plans to dedicate stand at new stadium to captain Lionel Messi

The Leo Messi Stand at Nu Stadium will pay tribute to the clubs 38 year old captain as Inter Miami departs from custom by honouring a current star rather than a retired icon of the sport.

Traditionally tributes gaze towards the past. They stem from nostalgia and recollection. This tribute stands apart the club declared in a statement released on Friday.

This tribute emerges from the here and now. From the current excitement. From the thrill you experience each time Leo takes the field.

Inter Miami will kick off matches at the 26,700 capacity stadium on 4 April against Austin FC.

Since arriving at Inter Miami in 2023 the player has led the team co owned by ex England midfielder David Beckham to three titles comprising the Leagues Cup in 2023 the Supporters Shield in 2024 and the MLS Cup in the previous year.

The winner of the Ballon dOr eight times also holds the record for most goals (82) and assists (53) for the club across 94 outings.

Messi netted his 900th professional goal earlier this month making him the second male player to hit that milestone in top level football behind his long standing competitor Cristiano Ronaldo.