Inter Miami flagged a misstep on social media as they celebrated Lionel Messi winning the Ballon d’Or. The club’s official X account posted a celebratory clip that marked the Argentine’s eighth Ballon d’Or, but a noticeable error slipped through in the visuals by showing the wrong trophy. The slip stood out because the trophy displayed had not been in use since 2015, a detail fans quickly spotted and pointed out. Still, the overall message remained a warm salute to Messi and his milestone, and the miscue did little to dull the moment for those watching from the bleachers to the stands.
The exchange underlined a universal truth in modern sports communications: even carefully crafted social media moments can miss the mark in small but conspicuous ways. In this case, the trophy mismatch became a talking point, yet it didn’t overshadow the awe surrounding Messi as he added another jewel to his glittering career. Inter Miami has built a narrative around high-profile signings and marquee moments, and for many fans, the excitement around Messi is a signal of the club entering a new era on and off the field.
Adding to the spectacle, David Beckham, the club’s co-owner and a former England star, was invited as the guest of honor to present the trophy on stage. Beckham’s presence added star power to a moment already charged with significance. The ceremonial atmosphere reflected how Inter Miami aims to align with global football culture while also reinforcing its local identity in North American soccer. Messi’s recognition on such a grand stage underscored the growing influence of the MLS in attracting top international talent and turning attention toward the league’s ongoing development and ambition.
Following the awards ceremony, Messi prepared to focus on the next chapter with Inter Miami as the club geared up for the 2024 season. The award serves not only as a personal achievement but as a catalyst for the team’s strategic plan, fan engagement, and potential sponsorship opportunities. For Inter Miami, the moment served as a tangible marker of progress, signaling a future in which the club can compete at the pinnacle of the sport while continuing to cultivate a strong bond with its supporters across Canada and the United States.