Lionel Messi faced criticism after meeting United States President Donald Trump at a White House event honoring Messi and his Inter Miami team.
The ceremony took place on Thursday in Washington, DC, following Miami’s Major League Soccer (MLS) title win over the Vancouver Whitecaps in December. Messi was also named MLS MVP for the second consecutive season.
During the event, Trump praised Messi, saying, “Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do.” Messi did not speak but applauded as Trump delivered a political address on military action in Iran, ongoing attacks in Venezuela, and potential future actions regarding Cuba and tariffs.
Trump described US and Israeli military operations in the Middle East, stating: “The United States military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy, far ahead of schedule.” Messi and the Inter Miami squad applauded during the speech.
Social media users quickly criticized Messi for being drawn into politics. Palestinian-American writer Ali Abunimah called the applause “vacuous and selfish,” while Spanish journalist Leyla Hamed described the gesture as “bizarre,” highlighting the recent deaths of hundreds of children in Iran. The deadliest attack in Minab killed 165 girls in an elementary school.
Other fans expressed shock at the presence of Messi and former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez while Trump spoke about bombing Iran. Critics argued that athletes should not be used to lend legitimacy to political or military actions.
The ceremony also included lighter moments, with Trump joking about players’ appearances and discussing Messi’s choice to join Inter Miami. Messi presented a signed team football to Trump, and Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas and coach Javier Mascherano gifted Trump a team jersey and watch. Trump mentioned that his son Barron is a fan of Messi and praised him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and is expected to play for Argentina in the upcoming summer tournament hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US. Despite the focus on football, the event was overshadowed by geopolitical tensions and criticism over the intersection of sports and politics.
