The arrival of football superstar Lionel Messi at Inter Miami Futbol Club has caused a significant surge in the club’s popularity. The club’s Instagram account reportedly gained more than 4 million followers within 24 hours of Messi’s signing announcement, surpassing the follower count of every NFL, MLB, and NHL team.
The Messi Effect
The “Messi Effect” is in full swing in South Florida. Messi’s decision to sign with Inter Miami, rejecting a $1 billion offer from Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, has had a profound impact on the club’s popularity. The club’s Instagram account added 4.2 million followers overnight, a number that continues to grow. The club now boasts a total of 5.6 million followers, more than any NFL, MLB, NHL, or MLS team.
Inter Miami CF has gained 4.2 million Instagram followers in the last 24 hours — and now has more followers than any NFL, MLB, NHL, or MLS team.
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) June 8, 2023
That's crazy 😳 pic.twitter.com/Z91ShyIy8O
Impact on Ticket Sales
The Messi effect is not only limited to social media. The ticket prices for Messi’s expected debut match have also seen a significant increase. Prior to Messi’s signing, tickets could be purchased for less than $30. However, post-signing, the prices have risen to more than $450, making them more expensive than NBA Finals entry tickets.
Fan Reactions
Fans have been quick to comment on the team’s newfound popularity. One fan exclaimed, “The Messi effect is real!” while another said, “This is great for Inter Miami.” Another follower wrote, “Soccer is the king of sports despite many people in the US still not being able to admit it.”
Messi’s debut is expected to come on July 21st, and a packed house in Miami is anticipated when he finally hits the pitch.
For more information on Messi’s move to Inter Miami, you can check out these articles:
