Messi phenomenon boosts tourism in Miami

14-08-23

Financial and technology companies have flocked to Miami in recent years, but for many residents the moment that defined the US city as the place to be was when football legend Lionel Messi wheeled a trolley through a Publix grocery shop.

The arrival of Messi - the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and Argentina's World Cup hero, who was spotted at the popular Florida supermarket chain a few weeks ago - has confirmed Miami as the top US city for sport.

Messi's debut for Inter Miami follows a sporting renaissance in South Florida. Miami has joined the annual Formula 1 racing circuit; its basketball and hockey franchises have contested championships this spring; and since college athletes won the right to earn sponsorship and endorsement money two years ago, University of Miami athletes have enjoyed a bonanza.