US President Donald Trump has many big tasks to tackle in 2026, but he took time this week to meet with soccer legend Lionel Messi and reigning MLS Cup champion.
Recently, President Trump invited many athletes to the White House, including the men’s hockey champion who won a gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
But Inter Miami’s visit to Washington DC marked another historic day for Trump, following visits to the nation’s capital by Jack Hughes, Connor Hellebuyck and Co. Trump also paid tribute to the U.S. men’s team during his State of the Union address in February.
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TRUML: “Today we are very excited to host Inter Miami, the 2025 MLS Cup champions… It is my special privilege to have the opportunity to say something no American president has ever had the opportunity to say before. Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi.”
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) March 5, 2026
Trump rolled out the red carpet for Lionel Messi and his team, and said his son Barron was also very pleased with the visit.
“Lionel Messi is here,” President Trump told the White House crowd. “My son said, ‘Dad, do you know who will be here today?’ I said, ‘No, I have a lot to do.’ My son is a big fan of you (Messi) and Ronaldo.”
Trump previously emphasized the importance of Messi’s visit to Washington, D.C., after he was unable to attend during Joe Biden’s presidency. Biden previously nominated Messi to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, but the Argentine star was unable to visit the White House due to the conflict.
Last summer, Trump revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo had sent him a special signed jersey a year before the World Cup. With the tournament just a few months away, President Trump is likely to appear at the game alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
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Argentine defender Gonzalo Montiel celebrates with Lionel Messi after scoring in a soccer match. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The US president also attended the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, where Chelsea defeated PSG in New Jersey. Trump was seen celebrating on the pitch with Chelsea players during the awkward encounter.
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