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The Argentine star Lionel Messi led the players of Inter Miami onto the field at the Nu Stadium this Thursday, during the team's first training session in what will be their permanent home, just two days ahead of the official inauguration scheduled for Saturday at 8:30 p.m. local time, featuring a match against Austin FC as part of the sixth round of the MLS.
The club posted on its social media a video of the moment with the message "Our new home," featuring the Argentine star leading the entrance of the team coached by Javier Mascherano onto the field.
The training session was attended by fans and was closely followed by David Beckham and Jorge Mas, two of the main owners of the franchise.
The Nu Stadium, located in Freedom Park in Miami, has a capacity of 26,700 spectators, about 5,000 more than the previous Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, where the team temporarily played as the home venue.
The construction of the site took almost three years and was completed with ongoing works in the surrounding area of the complex, which covers 53 hectares and includes a public park of 23 hectares, commercial areas, hotels, and offices.
The grass is high-quality Bermuda variety, sourced from a farm in Loxahatchee, Florida, and installed with the Lay and Play system that allows for immediate use. The field also features sensors, growth lights, and a smart drainage system to ensure optimal conditions throughout the season.
One of the most notable features of the new stadium is the east stand named Leo Messi Stand, which makes the Argentine the first active athlete with a stand named after them in a stadium where he regularly plays his matches.
The sector includes sections 117 to 121 on the lower level and 217 to 223 on the upper level, and the club promised those who access it "special experiences and surprises designed to make this section a truly unique and historic space."
The recognition acknowledges the impact of Messi since his arrival in 2023, during which the 38-year-old Argentine led the first four titles in the club's history: Leagues Cup 2023, MLS Supporters' Shield 2024, Eastern Conference Championship 2025, and MLS Cup 2025.
In the 2025 season, Messi recorded 29 goals, 19 assists, and 48 direct goal contributions in 28 matches, and won the MLS Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive year.
His contract with Inter Miami has been renewed until 2028, which ensures his presence in the new stadium for several years. Messi himself hinted at what’s to come: "It's going to be something very special to play at home in such a spectacular stadium."
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