Inter Miami is gearing up for its biggest showdown yet, a high-voltage clash with European powerhouse Paris Saint-Germain; however, it's already scored a massive win off the pitch, thanks to some vintage Messi magic and a modern Club World Cup that's brimming with opportunity. The tournament is bigger, bolder, and richer than ever, and right now, no one's riding the wave quite like Miami.
Fresh off his 38th birthday, Lionel Messi is still the master, pulling all the right strings. Miami's Group A adventure is a resounding success. They racked up five crucial points, including a dramatic 2–2 draw with Palmeiras, an earlier tie with Al Ahly, and a history-making win over Porto, per Sports Illustrator (SI).
That second-place finish tees up a marquee Round-of-16 showdown with Messi's old stomping grounds at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 29. But here's the beauty of it: no matter how the match plays out, Miami's bank account is already beaming.
Breaking Down the Money
FIFA's newly expanded Club World Cup didn't just bring worldwide attention; it came with a jaw-dropping $1 billion prize pool, unveiled in March, according to SI.
For Inter Miami, the math looks like this, per CBS:
- Automatic ‘host’ slot = $9.55 million
- Draw vs. Al Ahly = $1 million
- Win vs. Porto = $2 million
- Draw vs. Palmeiras = $1 million
- Round-of-16 qualification bonus = $7.5 million
Total so far: $21.05 million.
MLS Playoffs vs. Club World Cup
Just for perspective, they didn't see a dime when Miami exited the 2024 MLS Playoffs in Round One. Atlanta's reward for that two-legged victory was a modest $20,000. This time, the numbers speak for themselves.
More than money
But this isn't just about prize money. This is a golden ticket to global visibility for clubs outside the traditional European orbit. The Messi effect is in full swing, attracting fans, sponsors, and worldwide attention. Miami's brand is soaring, and the future looks bright.
With PSG looming, expectations remain grounded. But it's a win-win for Miami.
So, for David Beckham's Miami project, the future isn't just bright; it's looking downright golden.