:quality(75)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/bloomberglinea/WVKHNYILMZGBRL4FSOJS2XH3KE.jpg "Lionel Messi in action for Inter Miami: Photo: Twitter")
Bloomberg Línea — Jorge Mas, the managing owner of Inter Miami, has orchestrated a global soccer coup with the signing of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, one that’s been instantly rewarded with 11 goals in 11 appearances. But the billionaire co-owner’s plans for the club are far from coming to halt, as Mas charts a course to unveil a groundbreaking stadium by 2025.
Under Jorge Mas’s leadership, Inter Miami is experiencing a remarkable surge, with the incorporation of Messi to the starting-eleven coming as a crucial turning point. Before the Argentina captain’s arrival alongside former Barcelona FC starts Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, the MLS side’s form had been particularly poor, with just one win in eight games.
:quality(75)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/bloomberglinea/WVKHNYILMZGBRL4FSOJS2XH3KE.jpg "Messi Powers Ticket-Price Hike for Inter Miami’s Match Against New York Red Bulls")
All of that changed with World Cup winner’s signing, as Inter has now not lost a single match in eleven outings.
Now Mas is setting his sights on a modern stadium with a larger capacity than the DRV PNK Stadium, where Inter currently plays its home fixtures. Just as he demonstrated with Real Zaragoza, the Spanish club which he also presides, the construction of a state-of-the-art stadium in Miami will become one of the hallmarks of his tenure.
That vision has taken shape with Freedom Park, a 25,000-seat soccer specific stadium, 58-acre public park, and entertainment district, for which construction started in late August.
These spaces are slated to formally open their doors some time in 2025, with a grand inauguration ceremony planned for that year.
:quality(75)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/bloomberglinea/CKM6BVARG5BBPJWX4I66M5LGOY.jpeg "Lionel Messi Launches US-Based Investment Firm Targeting Sports and Tech")
The DRV PNK Stadium, for its part, is located in Fort Lauderdale, a short distance from Miami. This stadium has a capacity of 21,000 seats, and has served as an interim venue for the team until the completion of Freedom Park stadium in downtown Miami.
Jorge Mas shared his perspective on the progress made at the club in a recent press release, stating, “With Inter Miami my family set out to build something truly transformational. In just four years we have changed the perception worldwide of American soccer. As we commence construction of Miami Freedom Park that same vision guides us.”
“In creating a multi-faceted space we will set a new standard of what sport complexes can be. We look forward to delivering a food and entertainment destination for families to enjoy year-round. I can’t wait to welcome our fans to our state-of-the-art stadium and hear the chants as Messi and your Inter Miami players take the pitch for the first time in 2025,” he added.
Five Key Points About the Inter Miami’s Freedom Park
- Construction of Miami Freedom Park, including a 25,000-seat soccer stadium, is underway and set to open in 2025.
- The privately-funded project covers 131 acres and includes a public park, athletic fields, entertainment, retail, and more.
- Jorge Mas, Inter Miami CF Managing Owner, envisions a transformative sports complex and family destination.
- The project is progressing with earthwork, sitework, and vertical construction across the site.
- Additional phases are planned, expanding Miami Freedom Park’s offerings through 2030.
:quality(75)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/bloomberglinea/LKFOWABFZFECBEYBPR5WMZFI4E.jpg "Messi’s Miami Move Raises Hopes of a Surge In Support for US Soccer")
A Star-Studded Fanbase
Lionel Messi’s presence has not only lit up the pitch but has also ignited Inter Miami’s fanbase. The club’s shirt sales have gone through the roof, marking a major milestone in North American soccer. But Messi’s impact moves beyond merch sales; it’s already led to the team’s first title, the Leagues Cup.
His arrival has not only captured the hearts of lifelong soccer fans, but has also garnered the attention of numerous celebrities across the entertainment industry.
Among the notable names in attendance at recent Inter Miami games are:
- Selena Gomez
- Prince Harry
- Leonardo DiCaprio
- Tom Holland
- Tobey Maguire
- Gerard Butler
- Owen Wilson
- Jason Sudeikis
- Will Ferrell
- LeBron James
- James Harden
- Kim Kardashian
- Serena Williams
- Marc Anthony
