Messi's Arrival Ignites Las Vegas Sports Scene, Elevating City's Global Status

LAS VEGAS -- In a city renowned for its glitz and glamour, the arrival of Lionel Messi signifies a new chapter for Las Vegas as it solidifies its status as a major sports destination. Steve Hill, president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), expressed his excitement over the World Cup winner’s upcoming match with Inter Miami against Club America at the Allegiant Stadium this Saturday. Hill likened Messi’s visit to the legendary performances of The Beatles and Elvis Presley, highlighting the Argentine star's global impact and appeal in the world of sports. This match, while primarily a pre-season exhibition marking Javier Mascherano's debut as Inter Miami head coach, is set to draw a crowd of 40,000 to 45,000 fans. Although it falls short of a sell-out, it still represents a significant turnout for a non-competitive game, with tickets priced affordably starting at $67. Club America, one of the most popular teams among U.S. soccer fans, boasts over 15 million declared followers in the country, making the matchup particularly enticing to the local Hispanic and Latino population, which comprises 34.1% of Las Vegas's residents. Messi's presence is part of a broader trend that sees Las Vegas diversifying its economy beyond traditional gambling. Over the past few years, the city has transformed into a sports hub, welcoming high-profile events and teams. The NHL's Golden Knights, the NFL's Raiders, and the WNBA's Aces have all made significant inroads, and Major League Baseball's Oakland Athletics are poised to relocate to a new ballpark on the iconic Strip by 2028. Las Vegas has also emerged as a premier venue for fight sports, recently hosting the highest-grossing UFC event to date. The shift in Las Vegas’s identity is partly due to the destigmatization of sports betting, which is now legal in 38 states, allowing the city to capitalize on its longstanding history with gambling. Hill noted that the revenue from gambling, while still significant, no longer dominates the financial landscape of many Las Vegas properties. Instead, the city has adapted to accommodate a variety of entertainment options that draw visitors year-round. Looking ahead, Las Vegas has an ambitious calendar filled with major sports events, including the NCAA Final Four in 2028 and potential NBA expansion. Basketball has a long-standing presence in the city, notably through the NBA Summer League and various All-Star events. The NBA’s interest in expansion, alongside the success of existing franchises, could see Las Vegas become home to its own team sooner rather than later. As the city prepares for the Super Bowl in 2024, which is expected to generate over $1 billion in additional revenue, it is clear that Las Vegas is committed to fostering a vibrant sports culture. Hill emphasized the city’s need to keep evolving and expanding its offerings to maintain its status as a premier destination for both locals and tourists. Although Las Vegas will not be part of FIFA's upcoming major events in North America, its aspirations remain high. The city is keen on hosting warm-up matches for World Cup teams and training camps, hoping to capitalize on its growing status in the sports world. With Messi headlining this weekend’s event, the excitement is palpable, and Hill acknowledges that while Las Vegas may not have the FIFA spotlight now, it is certainly positioning itself for future opportunities. For now, fans will flock to Allegiant Stadium to witness Messi’s magic, further cementing Las Vegas's reputation as a city that can treat its visitors like VIPs. The spectacle of Messi’s visit is not just a singular event but part of a larger narrative that showcases Las Vegas as a vibrant sports town poised for continued growth and excitement in the years to come.