President Trump welcomed Inter Miami and star F Lionel Messi to the White House on Thursday “to celebrate the team’s 2025 MLS Cup title.” The players entered the East Room first. Trump then arrived “flanked by Messi” and team co-owner Jorge Mas. Trump began the event “with an update on the war in Iran.” Mas presented Trump with a pink No. 47 jersey to commemorate his presidency, then Messi gave Trump a “signed ball” and coach Javier Mascherano and the team presented Trump “with an engraved watch.” Mas’ entire family “was in attendance.” Also attending the ceremony were MLS Commissioner Don Garber, White House World Cup Task Force Exec Dir Andrew Giuliani and former MLBer and T’Wolves co-owner Alex Rodriguez (MIAMI HERALD, 3/5).
Messi has “famously avoided moments that collide with politics and could be perceived as endorsements.” That Messi did not opt out -- and that he “took center stage” -- was “notable because, whether he intended it or not, his presence could be perceived as an endorsement of the president.” Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham was not in attendance (THE ATHLETIC, 3/6).
