The Messi Effect on other Teams
Lionel Messi has boosted Miami but how has his move impacted the entire MLS
Hello World,
I have already written many pieces on the arrival of international superstar Lionel Messi, and here is another. He has truly redefined American soccer and its potential for the future. But today, I want to look at another perspective to this saga: the other teams in the league and how they are impacted by Messi's arrival.
The obvious one is that he has increased sales for the league’s exclusive streaming partner, Apple TV, and surely has led to fans watching other games that are not only Inter Miami. If you would like to read more about Messi’s deal and how Apple was vital in getting him to Miami, click here. But let's talk about ticket sales.
It goes without saying, in Miami he sold out his first match and has significantly increased season ticket sales for the team. But now those other teams. Well let's take Chicago Fire's game vs Messi and Miami. They are on pace to break the record for single-game revenue.
This game is reported to earn $7-10 million for the Fire. This would be more than their 16 other home games combined.
This is just another example of the Messi Effect and it seems like nothing can stop the hype train that has been steamrolling out of Miami. Messi and Miami have been a match made in heaven and US Soccer will continue to grow thanks to it. Truly an exciting time to be a soccer fan in the United States.