David Beckham makes history with Messi in a feat that shakes American soccer

David Beckham once again wrote history in MLS by becoming the first man to win the Cup as a player and later as an owner. The Englishman, who had already lifted the trophy in 2011 and 2012 with LA Galaxy, now did it from the stands with Inter Miami, the club he co-founded with the Mas brothers.

As Sport Illustrated reported, Florida’s victory came with Lionel Messi as the star, delivering two assists in the 3-1 win over Vancouver Whitecaps. The match, played in a packed Chase Stadium, was the last before the opening of Miami Freedom Park in 2026.

Beckham’s path in MLS

David Beckham’s story in the United States began in 2007, when he left Europe to join LA Galaxy. His start wasn’t easy, but over time he built a legacy that included titles and the arrival of stars like Landon Donovan. That experience prepared him for the bigger challenge: founding his own club.

The initial deal gave David Beckham expansion rights for $25 million, a figure that now looks small compared to the $150 million Nashville SC paid or the $500 million San Diego FC invested. The former midfielder’s vision was clear: bring the best player in the world to MLS. He fulfilled it with Messi in 2023.

Inter Miami and the project’s consolidation

David Beckham endured sleepless nights, with seasons where the team failed to reach the playoffs. However, the arrival of the Argentine star changed everything. In just two years, Inter Miami went from the bottom of the Eastern Conference to lifting the MLS Cup.

Twice as a player.
Once as an owner.
No chance it ever gets old.

The moment David Beckham became a an MLS Cup pres. by Audi champion with @InterMiamiCF! pic.twitter.com/AvtQZIrjE1

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) December 7, 2025

Beckham himself admitted there were “many sleepless nights,”. But he always trusted Miami and his partners. Today, with three titles in his record—two as a player and one as an owner—the Englishman stands as a key figure in the growth of American soccer.

Challenges ahead

The next challenge will be sustaining success after the retirement of leaders like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. David Beckham, alongside the Mas brothers, will aim to keep Inter Miami at the top while using Messi’s influence to continue raising the league’s profile.

David Beckham, with his unmistakable style, shows that his impact goes beyond goals and passes. He is an architect of dreams turned into reality.

ES NUESTRA!! 2025 MLS CUP CHAMPIONSSSS 🏆#CAMPEONES pic.twitter.com/YM121V6ksO

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) December 6, 2025