Messi’s Impact Continues to Reshape MLS Attendance, Ticket Prices

VANCOUVER, Canada — Just two days before hosting Inter Miami, the Vancouver Whitecaps made headlines with an unprecedented announcement that infuriated fans and left local newsrooms in a frenzy.

CEO Axel Schuster revealed that several star players, including Lionel Messi, would not be available for the match at BC Place. Despite the disappointment, the Whitecaps committed to their scheduled pregame festivities, including a block party and tailgates, while also offering a 50% discount on stadium food as compensation.

Messi’s influence in Major League Soccer (MLS) has been nothing short of revolutionary since his arrival in 2023. Clubs across the league are adapting their strategies to capitalize on the increased interest generated by his presence. For example, Sporting Kansas City traditionally plays at the soccer-specific Children’s Mercy Park, which holds 18,467 spectators. However, for matches against Inter Miami, they opted to move to Arrowhead Stadium — a venue with a capacity of over 76,000 — to accommodate the expected surge in fans.

The last season’s match at Arrowhead drew an impressive crowd of 72,610, marking the fourth-largest standalone attendance in MLS history. Similarly, Atlanta United recorded a massive turnout of 71,635 fans during a game against Miami, far surpassing their average attendance of 47,526.

Even the New England Revolution achieved a club-record crowd of 65,612 when hosting Miami, a figure that eclipsed long-standing attendance records. These notable increases reflect Messi’s ability to attract new supporters, both during home and away contests.

“To see the masses come alive whenever we show up is a cool thing,” said an Inter Miami player, highlighting the significant fan base accompanying the team. “It’s incredible to see the support that follows us.”

In a stark contrast to typical attendance figures, CF Montreal‘s recent game against Miami exemplified how Messi’s appearance drives up interest; the average ticket price soared from about $69 to an astounding $465 leading up to the match.

According to StubHub, the demand for Inter Miami tickets has surged globally, driven by Messi’s reputation as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. “The impact of Messi’s arrival continues to be momentous,” spokesperson Adam Budelli noted.

Peter Vermes, head coach of Sporting Kansas City, acknowledged the unique status Messi holds in the league. “The mania surrounding Messi remains unparalleled,” he stated, recalling previous high-attendance matches featuring global giants like Manchester United.

Analytics from MLS show that overall average attendance spiked in 2024, with several matches drawing over 50,000 fans and setting new benchmarks for crowd sizes. Messi’s presence consistently draws larger crowds, as seen in six of the top 10 attended matches of the season.

MLS commissioner Don Garber commented on Messi’s impact: “The metrics on and off the field have been spectacular. It’s great to see Leo Messi deliver for MLS in ways that we had hoped he would.”

As the 2025 season approaches, the buzz surrounding Messi’s potential final year in the league suggests that teams will continue to adapt their strategies to maximize attendance and engagement.