Inter Miami has officially announced the renewal of Lionel Messi’s contract until 2028, keeping the Argentine superstar in Major League Soccer (MLS) until the age of 41. The news sparked excitement across the United States — but also a key question back home in Argentina: does this new deal confirm Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup?

A long-term project in Miami

Since his arrival in 2023, Messi has completely transformed Inter Miami, turning the club into one of the most recognized sports brands on the planet. With this renewal, the Argentine ensures both stability and a favorable environment to stay competitive ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The contract includes off-field benefits — such as a potential ownership stake in the club and commercial agreements with Adidas and Apple — but also emphasizes a clear sporting focus. The plan between Messi and Inter Miami is to keep him performing at a high level in a league that continues to grow in both quality and international visibility.

Will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?

Messi himself has been cautious whenever asked about his future with the national team. In recent interviews, he’s stated that his decision will depend on how he feels physically and mentally when the time comes. Still, his commitment to Inter Miami until 2028 suggests he intends to remain active at least beyond the World Cup.

The timing works in his favor: the tournament will be held in the summer of 2026, when Messi will be 39 years old and already fully adapted to North American football. Meanwhile, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has repeatedly made it clear that the doors of the national team will always be open for the captain who led them to glory at Qatar 2022.

A perfectly calculated final chapter

Messi’s renewal with Inter Miami may well be the final strategic move of his career. It allows him to continue enjoying football without the relentless pressure of the European calendar, stay in top shape in a less demanding league, and prepare for a potential farewell on the world’s biggest stage — the World Cup, hosted in his current home country.

Having already conquered every major trophy possible, Messi seems to have one last goal in mind: defending his world title — this time on familiar soil.

All signs point to Lionel Messi featuring at the 2026 World Cup, and this new Inter Miami deal could be the decisive step toward his “last dance.”