Inter Miami CF, spearheaded by global superstar Lionel Messi, celebrated their historic 2025 MLS Cup championship with a prestigious visit to the White House on Thursday. US President Donald Trump hosted the team, including coach Javier Mascherano and co-owner Jorge Más, marking a significant moment for the club and American soccer. This historic visit recognized their remarkable achievement and the growing impact of Major League Soccer.

President Trump opened the proceedings with brief remarks before shifting focus to Inter Miami CF's triumphant 2025 season. He drew parallels to Brazilian legend Pelé's electrifying 1970s tenure with the New York Cosmos, acknowledging the similar impact Messi has had on soccer in the United States. Trump even playfully suggested Messi might surpass Pelé, stating, "I don't know, you [Messi] may be better than Pelé. Pelé was pretty good."

The Inter Miami CF delegation presented President Trump with a special gift: a number 47 jersey from their iconic pink kit, symbolizing his status as the nation's 47th president. Trump, in turn, recognized other key players, giving shout-outs to Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, rising talent Tadeo Allende, and midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, whom he complimented on his appearance.

A notable moment came when President Trump made an oblique reference to former US President Joe Biden. Trump declared, "It's my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel." This comment alluded to Messi's absence from a January 2025 ceremony where Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, reportedly due to scheduling conflicts. Trump appeared to relish hosting a VIP his predecessor could not.

Reflecting on sporting success, Trump noted, "I've seen a lot of great players come into the world of sports... Everything's great, but they don't win." This sentiment underscored Inter Miami CF's unique achievement in not just attracting world-class talent like Lionel Messi but also securing the coveted MLS Cup title, solidifying their place in American sports history.