How Messi's White House visit fits with his curated political image
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Lionel Messi made a surprising visit to the White House alongside U.S. President Donald Trump and Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas Santos, presenting Trump with a glittering pink soccer ball, marking a rare political appearance for the soccer star.
- Messi has historically avoided political involvement, especially in Argentina, where he declined to meet former President Alberto Fernández after winning the 2022 World Cup; his visit to Trump has sparked mixed reactions in Argentina, with some dismayed by his political engagement.
- Experts suggest Messi’s visit aligns with his long-term career and business interests, including his investment in Inter Miami and ties to the conservative Miami soccer community, rather than a shift in political stance.
- Unlike his predecessor Diego Maradona, who was outspoken on political issues
