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During Lionel Messi’s first full season, Major League Soccer (MLS) achieved an attendance record, marking a key milestone as the league continues to gain traction in the United States. In addition to raising the league’s prestige, the international soccer legend’s participation has brought in previously unheard-of numbers to stadiums around the nation.
MLS Achieves All-Time Attendance Record
This year, the regular season attendance record for Major League Soccer matches was broken by almost 11 million fans. The amount has now eclipsed the previous high of 10,900,804 established in 2023, with 16 games left before the MLS Cup finals begin. MLS crowds have exceeded 10 million throughout the regular season for the third consecutive year, with an average attendance of 23,240 across the league. The boost in attendance is probably mostly due to the arrival of soccer legend Lionel Messi in July 2023.
The average attendance at home and away Inter Miami games in 2022 was the second-smallest in the league, at little over 17,000 people. After Messi signed with Miami halfway through the 2023 season, that figure rose to 24,407, and in 2024 it reached 29,778 the second-highest in the league after Atlanta United. This season, Inter Miami games have had two of the top three biggest attendances. In April, the Herons defeated Sporting Kansas City 3-2 at Arrowhead Stadium, drawing 72,610 spectators, the fourth-largest attendance in MLS history.
The LA Galaxy vs. LAFC rivalry in July drew over 70,000 spectators to the Rose Bowl, while Inter Miami’s 4-1 victory over the New England Revolution in April drew 65,612 spectators, rounding out the top three largest audiences.
Messi’s Impact on Soccer
Messi’s entry into MLS has not only enthralled longtime supporters but also drawn in new viewers who might not have been interested in soccer before. His matches have generated a lot of excitement among fans who are excited to see one of the greatest players of all time play in America. The growth and development of the league are anticipated to be impacted in the long run by this phenomenon.
Messi’s influence extends beyond attendance figures, though, as he acts as a stimulant for other international players thinking about joining MLS. Its competition and global prominence increase as more well-known players join the league. This pattern may result in more sponsorship agreements, media attention, and general funding for soccer facilities nationwide.
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