Las Vegas is buzzing with excitement as soccer superstar Lionel Messi makes his debut in the city this weekend. Steve Hill, the president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, is thrilled about the influx of megastars like Taylor Swift and Beyonce, who have recently performed in the massive Allegiant Stadium.
Messi’s team, Inter Miami, is set to play against Club America, the reigning champions of Liga MX. Hill describes Messi as “the biggest name in the sport,” comparing his arrival to legends like The Beatles and Elvis. “To have him in town is incredible,” he adds. Although the match is a pre-season exhibition and significant mainly for Javier Mascherano’s debut as Inter Miami’s head coach, the spotlight clearly shines on Messi.
Fans are eager to see Messi, especially after a mixed pre-season tour last winter that saw him play limited minutes in Saudi Arabia. This time, 40,000 to 45,000 attendees are expected, with tickets starting at $67. Club America, popular among U.S. fans, brings a large following, especially given the strong Hispanic community in Las Vegas.
Vegas is no longer just about gambling; it has transformed into a sports hub. Hill emphasizes that the city needs new attractions to keep visitors coming. “The scale we have here can treat thousands of people like VIPs at once,” he says.
In the past decade, Las Vegas has welcomed several major league teams, including the NHL’s Golden Knights and the NFL’s Raiders. The WNBA team, the Las Vegas Aces, has also made its mark by securing back-to-back championships. The increase in sports events reflects the city’s efforts to broaden its appeal beyond traditional gambling.
With growing interest in sports betting across the U.S., Las Vegas has adapted by seeking out high-profile sports events. Hill mentions that having an NBA team is becoming more likely, as the league is looking closely at Vegas for potential expansion. The Super Bowl in 2024 had a massive economic impact, with over $1 billion in added revenue for the city.
As Las Vegas continues to redefine itself, it remains a sought-after location for major sporting events. While FIFA’s major tournaments bypass the city in the next year or so, Vegas is positioning itself for future opportunities. They’re keen on being a hub for pre-World Cup activities and world-class concerts from artists like AC/DC, Coldplay, and more.
Local interest in an MLS team remains high, but hurdles like financing and stadium requirements make it challenging. Nevertheless, Hill is optimistic about the potential for soccer in Las Vegas, highlighting the diverse fan base that exists.
For now, fans will gather to watch Messi showcase his talents, continuing the city’s trend of attracting monumental figures in sports and entertainment.
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