Argentine world cup winner and arguably football’s ‘Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T), Lionel Messi has not only conquered the world but has a fashion icon as he turned his boring Inter Miami jersey as one of the top defining fashion items of 2023 by none other than Vogue.
Since Messi’s move to Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Inter Miami, owned by former football star David Beckham, the iconic No.10 jersey has transcended its athletic roots to become a sought-after fashion statement.
Vogue magazine curated a list of the top 15 fashion pieces that left an indelible mark in 2023, and Messi’s pink Inter Miami kit secured its prestigious place among them.
The unexpected popularity of the jersey was noted by Vogue, stating,
Immediately following the Messi announcement, the generic Inter Miami jersey, in an unexpected shade of un–Barbie pink, sold out, giving rise to a rich bootleg industry. Now, nearly five months later, the official Messi jersey, sporting his number 10, remains wait-listed in most sizes on the adidas website.
The pink Inter Miami jersey, which was nothing special nor was it even a sought-after jersey among football fans worldwide, has now become more the hottest sports kit in the world, even more popular than Messi’s Paris Saint-Germaine (PSG) or his national jersey.
The arrival of Messi at Inter Miami not only elevated the team’s performance but also triggered a fashion frenzy, with fans clamoring to acquire the No. 10 jersey.
Lionel Messi’s global appeal extends beyond the football pitch, turning him into a trendsetter. His presence at Inter Miami matches has attracted A-list celebrities like LeBron James and Selena Gomez, injecting a dose of glamour into American soccer.
The success of jersey sales has also played a significant role in Inter Miami’s financial strategy. The team has capitalized on the high demand for tickets, increasing prices for the upcoming 2024 season.
