Lionel Messi’s remarkable World Cup journey came to an end after Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The defeat denied Messi a second World Cup winners’ medal, as Spain lifted the trophy for the second time in their history. Although the result brought heartbreak for Argentina, it did little to diminish the legacy of one of football’s greatest-ever players.
Lionel Messi’s Net Worth in 2026
According to Forbes, Lionel Messi has an estimated net worth of $1.1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest athletes in the world.
The Argentina captain has enjoyed more than two decades at the pinnacle of world football, earning enormous salaries alongside lucrative sponsorships and commercial partnerships.
From Barcelona to Inter Miami
Messi spent 17 trophy-filled seasons with Barcelona before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021. After two years in France, he made the switch to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer in 2023.
His move to the United States has significantly boosted his earnings, both on and off the pitch.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Salary
The 39-year-old remains the highest-paid player in MLS, with a guaranteed salary of $28.3 million during the 2026 season.
However, that figure represents only a portion of his total income.
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas previously revealed that Messi earns between $70 million and $80 million annually through a unique agreement that includes an ownership stake in the club.
Commercial Deals Continue to Grow Messi’s Fortune
Away from football, Messi has continued to expand his business empire through high-profile commercial partnerships.
The Argentine icon has lucrative deals with Apple and Fanatics, earning additional income from MLS Season Pass subscriptions and league merchandise sales.
Combined with his football earnings, endorsement portfolio and investments, these ventures have helped Lionel Messi become one of the few athletes in history to surpass the $1 billion mark.
Although Argentina fell just short against Spain in the 2026 World Cup Final, Messi leaves the global stage with an extraordinary legacy that extends far beyond trophies, cementing his place among the greatest footballers—and wealthiest sports stars—of all time.