Messi’s fortune tops US$ 1 billion as football icon builds global business empire
Sponsorships, property investments and business ventures help Argentina star expand wealth beyond the pitch
Dubai: Lionel Messi is no longer defined solely by his achievements on the football field. The Argentine superstar has also built a global business portfolio that, according to various financial estimates, has pushed his net worth beyond US$1 billion, placing him among the wealthiest athletes in the world.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is estimated to have joined the billionaire ranks in 2026, driven by a combination of football earnings, sponsorship agreements, real estate investments and business ventures.
Football earnings
Throughout his career with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, Messi has earned more than US$ 700 million in salaries and bonuses.
In 2025, he signed a contract extension with Inter Miami reportedly running until 2028. The deal includes an annual salary of around US$ 25 million, in addition to revenue-sharing arrangements linked to Apple’s MLS broadcasting partnership.
These agreements have helped maintain Messi’s position among the highest-paid athletes globally.
Power of global partnerships
A significant portion of Messi’s wealth comes from commercial endorsements.
He has a long-term partnership with Adidas and endorsement deals with major international brands including Pepsi and Mastercard, generating tens of millions of dollars annually.
Despite his commercial success, Messi has generally maintained a low-profile public image, preferring a more private lifestyle compared to many global sports stars.
Expanding investment portfolio
Beyond football and sponsorships, Messi has expanded his investments across real estate and hospitality.
His property portfolio is estimated to exceed US$ 300 million, including assets in Barcelona, Miami and his hometown of Rosario in Argentina.
Messi has also invested in the hospitality sector through the MiM Hotels chain and has interests in various commercial and sporting ventures, including ownership stakes linked to Spanish football club UE Cornellà, according to sports business reports.
These investments reflect a long-term strategy focused on building wealth beyond his playing career.
Rivalry beyond football
Messi’s longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo is also estimated to have a fortune exceeding US$ 1 billion, turning one of football’s greatest sporting rivalries into a race between two of the richest athletes in history.
While Ronaldo has built a highly visible global personal brand, Messi has largely pursued a quieter approach to business and investment.
Philanthropy and legacy
Alongside his commercial success, Messi continues to support charitable initiatives through the Leo Messi Foundation, which focuses on education and healthcare projects for children around the world.
As he continues competing at the highest level, including at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Messi’s influence now extends well beyond football, combining sporting success with a global business empire built largely away from the spotlight.