Lionel Messi said in an interview published yesterday that he will be joining Inter Miami, causing a ticket and social media frenzy.
According to the Herald, Miami’s lifestyle appeals to Messi. He is said to be a frequent visitor and owns a vacation home here.
CBS reported that Messi chose Miami over an offer from a Saudi Arabian club of 1 billion euros over two years. Jets were said to have been waiting in Paris and Barcelona to fly him into Saudi Arabia.
The Inter Miami Instagram account gained millions of followers since the announcement, and stands at 5.6 million.
Ticket prices for Inter Miami away matches have been soaring, with some seats said to be selling for several thousand dollars.
There’s also speculation that some matches could move from a temporary stadium in Fort Lauderdale to Hard Rock Stadium to meet demand.
Construction appears set to begin soon at Inter Miami’s permanent home near Miami International Airport, with permits now pending and a golf course at the site closed.
