The Messi Cup will return to Miami from October 25 to November 1, 2026, taking another major step forward after the success of its inaugural edition and doubling, for this second edition, the number of participating teams—from eight to sixteen U-16 sides.
This expansion strengthens the tournament’s ambition to establish itself as a global benchmark in youth football, bringing together some of the world’s most promising young players from the academies of several of the most prestigious international clubs.
Alongside its high competitive level, the tournament offers players the chance to experience different cultures and approaches to the sport, learn from one another, and build bonds that go beyond the pitch. The second edition will feature Inter Miami CF, Ajax, Inter Milan, Atlético de Madrid, Benfica, FC Barcelona, Palmeiras, Arsenal, Newell’s Old Boys, Flamengo, UE Cornellà, Manchester City, Boca Juniors, River Plate, Independiente del Valle, and Chelsea.
Following last year’s edition, which included the presence of Leo, Inter Miami CF will once again host the competition, with Inter Miami CF Stadium serving as the main venue for a full slate of matches. “The Messi Cup was created so that kids can live a unique experience, both on and off the field, at a crucial moment in their development, and so they can begin to understand what it means to compete at the highest international level.
We’re very happy to see the tournament grow and to bring together players from so many major clubs around the world so they can compete, share, and above all, enjoy football.” — Leo Messi
“Going from eight to sixteen clubs in our second year is an important milestone for the Messi Cup. Our goal is to earn a permanent place in the global youth football calendar and build a tournament that clubs value, that young players aspire to compete in, and that fans around the world want to follow.
That means raising the level every year, both in the quality of the football and in how we organize and develop the tournament.” — Tim Pastore, CEO of 525 Rosario
The tournament will be broadcast internationally through Disney+, ESPN+, and ESPN’s television channels, depending on the territory.
This coverage will allow fans around the world to follow the competition and discover players destined to shape the future of football. Several of the footballers who took part in the 2025 Messi Cup have already had the chance to play matches with their clubs’ first teams, highlighting the level of young talent present in the tournament.
The second edition is supported by major partners such as Adidas, Novakid, Gatorade, Panini, Messi Fragrances, 433, and El Club de la Milanesa. The competition schedule and additional details for the 2026 Messi Cup will be announced soon.
