Inter Miami and Messi Gear Up for Global Preseason Tour Ahead of MLS Season

Despite not making playoffs last season, team seen as frontrunner for 2024 MLS Cup due to high-profile roster.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are preparing for a world tour ahead of the Major League Soccer season, with games in five countries including Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, and Japan.
Inter Miami will host Real Salt Lake in the league's first game of the season on Feb. 21, marking the earliest start in league history.
Inter Miami, despite not making the playoffs last season, is seen as a frontrunner for the 2024 MLS Cup due to the presence of Messi and other high-profile players like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez.
Messi's presence in the MLS has significantly increased global interest in the league, with ticket demand for Inter Miami matches being the highest in the league.
Despite the excitement, there are concerns about the physical demands on Messi and his teammates, given their age and the grueling schedule that includes international duties and major international tournaments.