Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami helps Apple in registering staggering numbers

Lionel Messi's arrival proved to be a major boost for Inter Miami as the MLS outfit has seen a change in their recent fortunes. The Argentine disrupted the US soccer circuit as he signed for Inter Miami, bringing an end to his two year stint with PSG. Messi was pretty quick to hit the ground running as he has led Inter Miami single handedly to the Leagues Cup quarterfinal. However, Messi's signing has also been profitable for US soccer as it has brought an off the pitch revolution.

3 things you need to know

• This is Lionel Messi's first season in MLS
• He is currently likely to be the highest paid footballer in the USA
• Both Apple and Adidas reportedly played a massive role in Messi's Inter Miami deal

Apple double MLS season pass subscription due to Lionel Messi

As per multiple reports, Apple has seen a more than double fold rise in their MLS season pass subscriptions, such has been the effect of the Argentine World Cup winner. The MLS signed a 10 year deal with Apple for the streaming rights earlier this February. 

Also Read: Inter Miami vs Charlotte live streaming: Is Lionel Messi playing in Leagues Cup match?

MLS will receive at least $250 million per season from Apple. The league averaged $90 million per season under its previous eight-year agreements with Fox, ESPN and Univision. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas too shared the news on social media as he confirmed the development. 

“The Messi Effect is real. Subscribers to MLS season pass on Apple TV have more than doubled since Messi joined Inter Miami CF. Also, Spanish language viewership on MLS season pass on Apple TV has surpassed over 50% for Messi matches and continues to rise. How exciting for a truly global fan base.”

The Messi Effect is real! 🐐 Subscribers to #MLSSeasonPass on @AppleTV have more than doubled since Messi joined @InterMiamiCF. Also, Spanish language viewership on #MLSSeasonPass on @AppleTV has surpassed over 50% for Messi matches and continues to rise. How exciting for a truly…

— Jorge Mas (@Jorge__Mas) August 10, 2023

Apple CEO Tim Cook seemed to have approved Mas' statement as he replied to the Inter Miami co-owner on X, formerly known as Twitter. 

Also Read: WATCH | Fan shouts 'if he scores this, he's greatest of all-time', Lionel Messi obliges

“Tune in tomorrow to watch Messi and all the Leagues Cup action with MLS season pass on Apple TV,” wrote Cook, sharing Mas’ post."

Tune in tomorrow to watch Messi and all the Leagues Cup action with #MLSSeasonPass on @AppleTV ⚽️ https://t.co/ZqmybySBa8

— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) August 10, 2023

Inter Miami are set to take on Charlotte FC in a Leagues Cup quarterfinal on Saturday. 

(With AP inputs)