Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, has built a staggering fortune over his illustrious career.
With eight Ballon d’Or awards and numerous footballing records, Messi has amassed a wealth not only from his performances on the field but also from his savvy business ventures, endorsements, and real estate investments.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Lionel Messi grew up in a modest family with three siblings. His journey into football began at a young age when he joined the local club, Newell’s Old Boys.
However, at the age of 11, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency, which threatened to derail his football ambitions. His family, unable to afford the necessary treatment, faced a significant challenge.
The turning point came when FC Barcelona’s sporting director, Carles Rexach, offered to cover Messi’s medical expenses in exchange for his move to Spain.
Messi soon became part of Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, where his prodigious talent started to flourish. Over the years, Messi transformed from a hopeful young player to a global football icon, playing a pivotal role in Barcelona’s success.
Career Earnings: A Football Legacy
Lionel Messi’s career earnings are unparalleled, with his net worth being a testament to his success both on and off the field. His playing career began with FC Barcelona in 2004, where he became a mainstay in the team for almost two decades.
During his time at Barcelona, Messi accumulated gross earnings of approximately $1.2 billion. His final contract with the club, signed in 2017, was worth a staggering $674 million over four years.
In 2021, Messi made a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he earned $75 million annually with additional bonuses.
His most recent move in 2023 to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS) reportedly includes an eye-watering salary of $1.03 million per week.
This income is supplemented by revenue-sharing deals with major brands such as Apple and Adidas, further boosting his financial standing.
Additionally, Messi holds a 10% stake in Inter Miami, a team valued at $2 billion, a lucrative asset that adds to his wealth.
Endorsements: Lucrative Brand Partnerships
Messi’s marketability has made him one of the highest-earning endorsers in sports history. His endorsement deals have netted him millions of dollars annually, with the most notable being his lifetime contract with Adidas, which began in 2006.
Messi’s collaboration with Adidas has not only led to signature footwear lines but also makes him one of the highest-paid athletes globally, earning around $30 million each year from brand deals.
Other major partnerships include a long-standing association with Pepsico, where he promotes products like Pepsi, Lay’s, and Gatorade. This deal alone is estimated to add $30 million to his annual earnings.
Additionally, Messi has lucrative endorsement deals with Huawei, Mastercard, Jacob & Co., and Budweiser, among others.
One of his most high-profile deals is with Saudi Arabia, where Messi earns around $25 million for limited promotional activities, including social media posts and commercial appearances.
Real Estate: Luxurious Properties Across the Globe
As one of the wealthiest athletes in the world, Messi has invested heavily in real estate, acquiring luxurious homes and properties in prime locations.
His primary residence is a mansion in Castelldefels, Spain, which he purchased in 2009 for $2 million. The property has since appreciated in value, now worth between $7 and $10 million after extensive renovations.
In 2019, Messi bought a $5 million condo in Miami, and in 2021, he expanded his real estate portfolio by purchasing a unit in the exclusive Porsche Design Tower, a luxury development that features a car elevator.
Following his move to Inter Miami, Messi added a 10,500-square-foot mansion in Fort Lauderdale to his collection.
Valued at approximately $10 million, the mansion features eight bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a spa, multiple boat decks, and even a helipad, reflecting Messi’s taste for opulent living.
Car Collection: Luxury and Prestige
Messi is known for his passion for luxury cars, and his collection includes some of the most expensive and high-performance vehicles in the world.
While he once owned an Embraer Legacy 650 private jet, Messi recently switched to a Gulfstream GV, which he rents when needed.
His car collection is equally impressive, featuring exotic cars such as a Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti, a Maserati GranTurismo, and a Pagani Zonda, among others. These cars not only reflect Messi’s status but also his penchant for fine luxury.
Philanthropy: Giving Back to the Community
Despite his immense wealth, Messi is known for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to giving back.
In 2007, he founded the Leo Messi Foundation, which focuses on supporting educational and healthcare programs for vulnerable children worldwide.
Messi has also been a long-time ambassador for UNICEF, using his platform to raise awareness about children’s rights and education.
His charitable contributions extend beyond his foundation, as he has supported several Argentine youth football clubs, including Rosario Central and Boca Juniors, financially backing their development and initiatives.
Additionally, Messi is actively involved in fundraising events, participating in global football matches to raise money for various causes. His charitable work has been integral to his legacy, showing that his influence reaches far beyond the football pitch.
Lionel Messi’s Net Worth in 2025: A Financial Powerhouse
As of 2025, Lionel Messi’s estimated net worth stands between $650 million and $800 million, making him one of the richest athletes in the world.
This massive fortune is a result of his stellar football career, endorsement deals, real estate investments, and business ventures.
Messi’s wealth continues to grow as he diversifies his income sources, demonstrating his business acumen and global appeal.
Messi’s remarkable success story, from his humble beginnings in Argentina to becoming a football legend, serves as an inspiration to millions. Whether on the field or in his various business ventures, Messi has proven himself to be a true icon of the modern sports world.
