In spite of a significant tropical thunderstorm that preceded the occasion, the introduction of the Argentine soccer legend, Lionel Messi, to the Inter Miami FC on Sunday was nothing short of an exuberant spectacle.
Miami's stadium, capable of accommodating 20,000 spectators, was nearly packed, with fans waiting eagerly, undeterred by the torrential downpour. This fan enthusiasm led to a minor delay of the much-anticipated event named "The Unveil," but it only heightened the anticipation.
When Messi eventually took to the stage, the slightly damp but ecstatic audience erupted into chants of his name. Former Manchester United and LA Galaxy star David Beckham, now co-owner of Inter Miami, welcomed Messi to the club, calling it a realization of a "dream."
"We are ecstatic that you've chosen us for your next career phase, Leo," said Beckham, welcoming Messi to the "family" amidst the cheering crowd.
Inter Miami's majority owner, Jorge Mas, delivered a passionate speech in both English and Spanish, rousing the crowd. He hailed the event as a celebration and gift for the city that welcomed his family with open arms. He also labeled the rain as "holy water" and declared this a pivotal moment for American football.
He then introduced Messi, saying, "Presenting your new number 10, America's number 10."
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, who made waves earlier this week after pictures of him shopping locally went viral, expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support.
"I am thrilled to be in Miami," he told the crowd. "I'm eager to start training, to play, and to help the club grow. I chose this city and this project for my family, and I have no doubt that we will have a great time, and achieve wonderful things together," Messi added.
Inter Miami, currently last in the Major League Soccer standings, announced on Saturday that Messi had agreed to a contract through 2025. Messi decided to join Miami after leaving Paris Saint-Germain last month.
His former Barcelona colleague, Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets, was also introduced to the spectators. Don Garber, the commissioner of Major League Soccer, lauded Jorge Mas for his relentless pursuit of Messi.
"Lionel Messi was on his list from day one. I didn't believe it at first, but here we are, welcoming a player who is undoubtedly one of a kind and, in my opinion, the greatest of all time," Garber remarked.
While Messi was slated to have a press conference on Monday, the club postponed it for undisclosed reasons. Messi might make his debut against Cruz Azul in the new Leagues Cup on Friday, according to reports.
Despite the excitement, the club's Argentine coach, Gerardo Martino, encouraged patience, considering the team's current winless run.
Latin music stars Camilo and Ozuna were on hand to delight the crowd at the DRV PNK Stadium, an hour north of downtown Miami. The stadium, which was not entirely filled when the event commenced, served as a temporary home for Inter Miami, with plans for a new Freedom Park stadium set to open in 2025.
