Forget the Dolphins, the Heat or the Marlins – it’s the MLS franchise that is bringing A-listers to their games.
David Beckham has made Inter Miami the hottest ticket in the States – thanks to Lionel Messi
Pitchside at the DRV PNK Stadium has become a celebrity affair
And it’s all because of owner David Beckham, who has had a helping hand by recent recruit Lionel Messi, in bringing the stars through the gates at the DRV PNK Stadium.
In fact, pitchside at the Fort Lauderdale arena has become the MLS equivalent of courtside at the Staples Center.
That has made Inter Miami the must-see sports team in the States.
Beforehand…
The excitement around Beckham, 48, owning a sports team was enough to attract his celeb pals who offered their support.
His product might have been lacking in pizzazz, with early recruits Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi not exactly setting the world on fire.
But, Becks’ is an extremely well-connected man.
Curious as to see what all the fuss was about, the rich and famous took in an Inter Miami game.
A star-studded debut
While his lightning-delayed unveiling was a damp squib, Messi’s debut against Cruz Azul was the equivalent of an Oscars red carpet that ended with a dramatic Hollywood movie plot twist.
The star attraction entered the fray in the second half, admittedly very short of match-fitness.
That didn’t matter. Not for a man of Messi’s class who had to entertain his new fans, with some paying over £1,000 for a ticket.
Inter Miami owners Jorge Mas, Jose Mas, and David Beckham pose alongside Lionel Messi at his unveilingCredit: Getty
The Kardashians dropped in to offer the Beckhams their support,Credit: Instagram
For Kim Kardashian and tennis legend Serena Williams, they had to be there to see Messi’s debut
Sports pals LeBron James and David Beckham pose for a snap in Fort lauderdaleCredit: Instagram
Deep into stoppage time, he stood over a free-kick some 30-yards from goal.
A trademark free-kick followed, driving the fans into ecstasy, Messi’s team-mates wild and securing a win for his new club.
Right before he made his appearance, Kim Kardashian, LeBron James, Serena Williams, DJ Khaled, Camila Cabello, Rick Ross, Derek Jeter, Diddy, Becky G, and Marc Anthony all watched in expectation of the spectacular.
Even they were in awe of the Barcelona legend, with some of those whipping their camera phones out to film the moment.
And it wasn’t a fad
While his debut was something of make-believe, that enticed the A-listers furthermore.
You could be fooled into thinking a match against Atlanta United isn’t exactly a glamour tie.
Tell that to Diddy (again), DJ Khaled (again), Camila Cabello (again), and Puerto Rican singer Rauw Alejandro.
DJ Khaled and rapper Diddy were seen enjoying Messi’s second game
DJ Khaled’s son Asahd was overcome with emotion stood next to Lionel Messi
Camila Cabello snatches a chat with Lionel Messi
Before the action kicked off, Messi led out his team alongside Khaled’s son, Asahd.
It was an occasion that was even too much for the boy, who weeped tears of joy to be stood next to his hero.
Still, those tears would have been wiped as Messi’s second coming inspired a 4-0 demolition of an MLS rival.
Messi was the architect again, scoring twice inside the opening 22 minutes.
And he seemingly appeared to be enjoying his new-found status, sharing a chat with singer Cabello during proceedings.
In recent weeks, Becks’ close pal NFL legend, Tom Brady and producer/rapper Pharrell Williams have also shown their love for Inter Miami.
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Messi’s Inter Miami odyssey is currently being followed by an Apple TV+ crew, who are watching developments closely.
Expect it to feature a star-studded line-up, along with the main attraction.
NFL legend Tom Brady and Pharrell Williams are recent A-listers who have have joined the Inter Miami celebrity fan clubCredit: Getty
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami odyssey is being filmed by a Apple TV+ crewCredit: Getty