Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner who is eyeing another World Cup trophy with Argentina, has built an empire through investments in real estate, hospitality, fashion, beverages, media and sports technology.
According to Forbes, Messi’s net worth is estimated at $1.1 billion, making him one of the few active athletes to achieve billionaire status.
Beyond football contracts and endorsements, Lionel Messi has built a massive property portfolio estimated at around $300 million, with luxury homes, hotels and investment properties spread across Spain, the United States and Argentina.
At Inter Miami, Lionel Messi earns a base salary of $25 million annually, with guaranteed compensation of $28.3 million, making him the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer.
Beyond the contract, his overall package, including commercial arrangements and ownership-related benefits by Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas, is between $70 million and $80 million per year.
Messi’s Real Estate and Hospitality Investment
Messi joined FC Barcelona in 2004 and ventured into real estate in 2009, when he purchased a home in Castelldefels near Barcelona, for $2 million.
The estate features luxury facilities including a private football pitch, gym, spa, swimming pool, home cinema and spaces dedicated to his family and football memorabilia.
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According to Financial Express, the company holds interests in several hotels and commercial properties, with the real estate investment firm valued at more than $230 million.
The football star owns MiM Hotels, a luxury hotel chain that operates in popular tourist destinations in Spain and Andorra. The hotels offer high-end accommodation, restaurants, wellness facilities and premium services.
Before moving to Inter Miami in 2023, Messi had already started investing in Florida’s luxury property market.
In 2019, he purchased a unit at the Porsche Design Tower in Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, for $5 million. The luxury residence is known for its ocean views, private terraces and a unique car elevator system that allows residents to park vehicles near their apartments.
In 2021, Messi bought an entire floor at the Regalia tower in Sunny Isles Beach for $7.3 million. The luxury apartment includes panoramic ocean views, a large terrace, wine storage and premium amenities.
After joining Inter Miami, Messi added a $10.8 million waterfront mansion in Fort Lauderdale. The property, located close to Inter Miami’s training facilities, includes multiple bedrooms, waterfront access and private docks.
He has also invested in Miami’s luxury condominium market, including purchases at Cipriani Residences Miami, where a single unit was valued at $7.5 million.
In his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, Messi built a large private compound popularly known as “The Fortress.” The estate was constructed on several plots of land and includes between 20 and 25 rooms, a cinema, gym, underground garage with space for around 15 cars, and luxury family facilities. The construction cost has been estimated at about $4 million.
Messi also owns a holiday property in Ibiza, Spain, acquired at $12.8 million.
Also Read: How a Chip Inside the Ball Saved Portugal From World Cup Heartbreak
Messi’s Consumer Brands
Messi has also entered the consumer market with products selling because of his iconic brand. In 2024, Messi launched Más+ by Messi, a hydration drink
The beverage brand was created to compete in the fast-growing sports hydration market, targeting athletes and consumers looking for alternatives to traditional sports drinks.
The football icon has also developed The Messi Store, a fashion and lifestyle brand offering clothing, footwear and accessories inspired by his image and style. The brand allows fans around the world to connect with Messi beyond football merchandise.
His commercial portfolio also includes long-running partnerships with some of the world’s biggest companies such as Adidas, Apple and other global corporations.
Media, Technology and Football Investments
Beyond physical products and properties, Messi has invested in entertainment and technology.
Through 525 Rosario, a production company launched in partnership with Smuggler Entertainment, Messi develops documentaries, films, branded content, and entertainment projects.
Messi is also involved in Play Time Sports-Tech, an investment platform focused on sports technology, media, and digital businesses.
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