Messi Kicks Off MLS Season in Crucial World Cup Year

Football icon Lionel Messi has launched a new Major League Soccer campaign in what promises to be a landmark year for the sport in North America, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to reshape the global football landscape.

Messi Kicks began the new Major League Soccer season leading Inter Miami CF, drawing packed crowds and worldwide attention as fans eagerly anticipate another standout year from the Argentine superstar. His presence continues to elevate MLS’s profile, both commercially and competitively.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will split the MLS season into two distinct phases. The summer tournament is expected to pause domestic league action, creating a mid-season break that could test squad depth and momentum for clubs across the league.

For Messi, this season carries added significance. While he has already cemented his legacy with a World Cup triumph in 2022, the 2026 edition on North American soil offers a unique backdrop as he continues to inspire a new generation of fans in the region. His performances in MLS are seen not only as key to Inter Miami’s ambitions but also as instrumental in building excitement ahead of the global showpiece.

League officials anticipate record attendances and television viewership, fueled by Messi’s continued involvement and the looming World Cup. Clubs are also investing heavily in infrastructure and talent development, hoping to capitalize on the sport’s growing popularity.

As the MLS season gets underway, all eyes remain on Messi — both as a marquee player driving league success and as a central figure in a transformative year for football across North America.