The Herons have had an epic 2023 after bringing the World Cup winner to MLS on a free transfer.
Inter Miami won two awards at the 17th edition of the Sports Business Awards in New York on Wednesday evening.
Florida leaders won the Operation of the Year award for bringing in Lionel Messi last summer. Just months after leading Argentina to a historic World Cup triumph, Messi left French champions Paris Saint-Germain to move to South Florida.
Lionel Messi transfer of the year
His impact on the team, the game and the country was immediate, as he led a struggling Inter Miami to the League Cup title within weeks of his arrival. Messi has been a sensation on the pitch and has also had a profound impact commercially, as Miami now targets a Real star.
On Thursday, MLS Commissioner Don Garber congratulated Miami on its award: “ The signing of Leo Messi was a game-changer, raising the profile of not only the club, but MLS and the entire sport in North America. Jorge Mas, Jose Mas and David Beckham believed in MLS and made an unprecedented investment in the greatest player of all time”. The “Deal of the Year” is not the only award given to MLS, nor the only one won by Inter Miami. The 2023 Sports Team of the Year award was also presented to the Herons.
Lionel Messi will have the opportunity to experience new recognition in the Argentina jersey. The eight-time Ballon d’Or was indeed selected by his coach Lionel Scaloni for the Copa America.
