In a high-profile celebration of their 2025 MLS Cup triumph, Inter Miami CF visited the White House on Thursday afternoon. The ceremony, hosted by President Donald Trump, marked a historic moment for the club and cemented the team’s status as the new “heavyweights” of North American soccer.
A Championship Tradition
Continuing the time-honored tradition of honoring domestic champions, President Trump welcomed the Inter Miami squad, staff, and MLS Commissioner Don Garber to the nation’s capital.
The visit follows Miami’s dominant 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2025 MLS Cup Final, a win that solidified Lionel Messi’s legendary impact on the league.
Presidential Praise for the ‘GOAT’
During the ceremony, President Trump took a moment to laud Lionel Messi, drawing comparisons to the all-time greats of the sport.
“Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do,” President Trump remarked. “There’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know, because you sort of expected to win, but almost nobody wins. Welcome, Lionel Messi, to the White House… I don’t know, you may be better than Pele.”
The Vision for MLS
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas utilized the platform to reflect on the club’s ambition and the broader growth of Major League Soccer.
“We can play with the big boys, we can play with the heavyweights,” Mas stated. “Our league can be one of the top leagues in the world. And it is this ability to dream, to persevere… that we will continue to be successful.”
Setting Aside the Noise
While presidential visits often spark debate, the players remained focused on the sporting achievement. Midfielder Telasco Segovia addressed the team’s participation earlier in the week, noting the professional nature of the trip.
“We are going because we are champions from last season,” Segovia said. “I don’t get involved with politics, but I know it’s an important occasion.”
A Historic Milestone
This visit marks a significant footnote in Messi’s tenure in the U.S. While a prior invitation from the Biden administration in 2025 for the Presidential Medal of Freedom could not be fulfilled due to scheduling, Thursday’s event successfully brought the Argentine icon to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
As Inter Miami celebrates this achievement, the focus now shifts back to the pitch, as the squad prepares for their upcoming league fixture against D.C. United this Saturday.
