Lionel Messi has amazed us with his dazzling footwork on the field. However, beyond his record-breaking goals lies an equally impressive financial story. Over the years, Lionel Messi’s net worth has soared to staggering heights through strategic brand partnerships and business ventures. But how has he leveraged his football earnings, endorsement deals, and investments to build a formidable financial empire? Read on for more insights.
Early life and career beginnings
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Lionel Messi showed an early talent for soccer. His potential was so evident that FC Barcelona offered to pay for his growth hormone deficiency treatment. To this end, his family had to move to Spain when he was just 13. This marked the beginning of Messi’s rise in soccer, as he progressed through the ranks of Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia.
Soccer earnings
Messi’s professional career took off at Barcelona, where he spent over two decades and became the cornerstone of the club’s success. Throughout this time, Messi’s salary saw exponential growth. In his final years at the club, his annual salary reportedly exceeded €70 million. His departure from Barcelona in 2021 was primarily due to the club’s financial struggles. La Liga’s strict cap rules made it impossible to afford his high wages.
His move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in August 2021 was also on a high-value contract. Rumor is earned around €35 million net annually, including bonuses.
In 2023, Messi gained worldwide publicity, having joined Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer. The relocation was a historical moment for the player and the league. He is reported to be earning a salary of more than 50 million dollars per annum within his contract, as well as profit-sharing deals with Apple and Adidas, depending on MLS expansion. The signing was a turning point for American soccer. Sales of tickets, TV appearances, and sales of merchandise increased alarmingly after his arrival. The stadiums of the United States were filled weeks beforehand, and even international fans came to see him play.
Another way Messi chose to live in Miami was the lifestyle. It was able to provide a balanced environment to his family and business venture, and keep his sporting ambitions. He changed Inter Miami into a worldwide brand. The valuation of the club skyrocketed, and MLS was seen globally through Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The participation of Messi encouraged the new investors, sponsors, and younger generations to join the league. Outside the economic aspect, he also boosted the credibility of the league as the best players could still play at a high standard outside of Europe. His US experience explains how the brand of the player can redefine a sports ecosystem. Although he currently plays for the MLS, his 2023 transfer caused quite a stir.
Endorsement deals
Off the pitch, Messi’s earnings are equally impressive. He has been associated with major brands like Adidas, Pepsi, Mastercard, and Huawei. His lifelong deal with Adidas is lucrative, just like Michael Jordan’s Nike deal. These endorsements have added significantly to his income, with Forbes often listing him among the highest-paid athletes in the world.
10 notable investments of Lionel Messi
Beyond salaries and endorsements, Messi has been quite astute with his investments. His ventures cover various industries, including real estate in Spain and Argentina. He also owns a theme park in China called the Messi Experience Park. Here are ten notable investments that illustrate how Messi has diversified his financial portfolio beyond the soccer pitch:
1. The Messi store
Launched in 2019, The Messi Store is Lionel Messi’s official clothing line. The brand focuses on premium streetwear and sportswear, designed by Ginny Hilfiger, sister of American designer Tommy Hilfiger. This venture represents Messi’s brand extension into the fashion industry.
2. MiM Hotels
Messi’s MiM Hotels chain is managed by the Majestic Hotel Group. The properties are in prime vacation spots, including Ibiza and the Catalan Pyrenees, appealing to luxury travelers.
3. Soccer schools
Messi has invested in developing soccer schools globally, particularly through the Messi10 by Cirque du Soleil initiative. These schools aim to nurture young talent, teaching skills and techniques synonymous with Messi’s playing style.
4. Real estate
Messi’s investment portfolio includes substantial real estate holdings. He owns luxury properties in Barcelona, Miami, and his hometown of Rosario, Argentina. His Miami apartment in the exclusive Porsche Design Tower, which features a car elevator, is particularly noteworthy.
5. Stake in FC Andorra
In 2018, Messi purchased a stake in FC Andorra, a football club in Spain’s lower leagues. This investment was made through the Kosmos Holding Group, owned by Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, Gerard Piqué.
6. Seiko watches
Messi collaborates with the Japanese watchmaker Seiko, under their luxury Grand Seiko brand, to produce limited edition watches.
7. Azahar Group
Messi has also invested in Azahar Group, a company specializing in organic food products and services.
8. Tech startups
Always looking towards the future, Messi has invested in various tech startups in the mobile application and health technology sectors. These investments are evidence of his keen interest in the growing technology market.
9. Media productions
Messi was involved in producing a show with Cirque du Soleil based on his life and career.
10. Wine production
Messi owns a vineyard in the renowned wine-producing region of Mendoza, Argentina. His label offers premium wines, capitalizing on the growing global demand for Argentine wines.
Philanthropy
Messi also channels part of his wealth into philanthropic efforts. His foundation, the Leo Messi Foundation, was established in 2007 and focuses on education and health care.
Tax issues
Despite Messi’s successes, life has not been smooth sailing. In 2016, he and his father were found guilty of defrauding the Spanish government of €4.1 million between 2007 and 2009. This episode led to a suspended prison sentence and a fine, which somewhat tainted his otherwise sterling reputation.
Lionel Messi’s net worth in 2025
Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated at around $850 million as of 2025. His wealth stems from his long football career, strategic investments, sponsorship deals, and significant property holdings. Over the years, he has built a diversified portfolio that includes luxury real estate across multiple continents, equity in various businesses, and profitable royalty agreements. His partnership with Inter Miami, along with long-standing deals with Adidas and Pepsi, ensures a steady stream of revenue each year. Few athletes have achieved such a balanced mix of income from salaries, endorsements, and investments.
Messi’s financial approach is grounded in disciplined planning. He avoids high-risk ventures, choosing instead to invest in stable sectors such as hospitality and sportswear. His exclusive association with Adidas, ongoing since 2006, has earned him hundreds of millions in royalties. He also generates substantial income from his image rights and highly valued social media presence, where sponsored posts command significant fees. Unlike many athletes who face financial strain post-retirement, Messi has built an empire designed to outlast his playing career. His structure provides both long-term security and sustained growth.
Family plays a key role in this long-term vision. Antonela Roccuzzo contributes through her work in fashion and philanthropy, ensuring that their business interests remain connected to their values. This approach mirrors Messi’s core philosophy: loyalty, teamwork, and steady progression. His wealth is not about extravagant display but about security, longevity, and legacy. Messi stands among the few athletes who possess not only immense financial success but also enduring global respect.
Lessons from Lionel Messi’s net worth and success
Lionel Messi’s financial journey provides a glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most successful athletes. Want insights on how to build and manage your financial empire? Here are some key takeaways from Messi’s approach to wealth accumulation and management:
-
Diversify income sources
Lionel Messi has never relied solely on his soccer salary. His wealth stems from a combination of his football contracts, endorsement deals, and private investments. This diversification helps mitigate risks.
-
Leverage your talents and skills
Messi’s primary source of income and initial wealth came from mastering soccer. He focused on his talent and was able to command high salaries and attract lucrative endorsements. Similarly, invest in developing your skills and expertise in your respective fields. This approach leads to better job opportunities, higher earnings, and professional stability.
-
Brand building is crucial
Messi’s name and image are globally recognized, making his personal brand incredibly valuable. He has leveraged this by aligning with brands that enhance and reflect his persona and values. Building a personal brand in the corporate world or on social media can increase visibility and open doors to new opportunities.
-
Smart investment is key
Invest wisely. Messi has invested in real estate, technology startups, and other business ventures. These investments provide passive income streams and long-term value appreciation. The lesson here is to educate oneself on different investment options. Also, invest in assets that can yield returns over time. Additionally, balance your risks and rewards according to personal financial goals.
-
Financial planning and management
Despite his high earnings, Messi has faced challenges such as tax evasion charges, which he resolved. This highlights the importance of proper financial planning and understanding the tax implications of earnings and investments. Engaging with financial advisors and tax professionals can prevent legal troubles and help in optimizing financial strategies.
-
Give back to the community
Messi has used his wealth to support various charitable causes through his foundation. Giving back, whether through time, resources, or skills, can make a significant impact.
-
Prepare for life after your main career
Finally, despite his ongoing soccer career, Messi is already preparing for the future with his investments and brand endorsements. This forward-thinking approach is crucial for anyone to ensure long-term financial security and career longevity. Planning for retirement or a career transition early can help mitigate risks and ensure continued income.
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of Lionel Messi is not based on numbers and titles. He transformed the image of footballers worldwide. His vision, intelligence, and style of play established the standard of excellence in him. He demonstrated that one does not have to be arrogant to achieve greatness; all that is needed is commitment and mastery. He also inspires young people worldwide, influencing aspiring players who model their careers on his hard work. He not only symbolizes success, but morals and humility in a game that is mostly filled with ego and showmanship.
The cultural impact of Messi is huge. His image is a representation of hope and aspiration, as seen in murals in Buenos Aires and on the shirts worn by children in Africa. Being a pioneer of sport, he has now become an inspiring figure in international sports, which is appreciated by representatives of diverse races. Competitiveness with Cristiano Ronaldo brought football to a whole new level, making it one of the most glorified periods in the history of sports. However, the unobtrusiveness and steadfastness of Messi have made him something eternal. His brand has managed to stay strong and admired even as he approaches retirement.
Careers that might await him after football include coaching, philanthropy, and venturing into other businesses. However, his main legacy is his contribution to the game itself. Messi has created a new generation of players and a new standard of what it is to be an athlete in the contemporary world. His career proves that it is not only skill or discipline but also humaneness that makes one great. Not only does he leave records, but also a philosophy that would shape the football world for decades.
Final take
Lionel Messi’s journey to a global soccer icon and a business mogul is inspiring. His financial empire makes him a legend in soccer and a heavyweight in the sports business. As he continues his career in the United States, Messi’s influence and legacy will extend far beyond the soccer fields.
How Pressfarm can help with your personal brand
Need help building your personal brand and creating newsworthy content? Let the PR specialists, expert writers, and certified designers at Pressfarm help you.
Pressfarm is a PR agency that helps startups and companies of various sizes create quality content. Think email pitches, press releases, guest posts, and press kits. All of this content can help you build a memorable brand image. We can also distribute your content to respected media outlets and startup directories. In addition, we help you to feature in relevant search results across different search engines. With our curated media list, you connect and partner with the best journalists in your niche to share your story. The best part is that you get all this and more wrapped in one of three affordable packages.
