Lionel Messi Net Worth Breakdown Will Leave Fans Stunned

06.02.2026 14:55

Zimbio.com

Whenever individuals mention the greatness of football, the first thing that comes to their minds is the person Lionel Messi. The fans tend to discuss his objectives, trophies, and miracles. However, there is another case behind the football genius that is how Messi created one of the largest fortunes in the history of sports.

By the end of 2025, Lionel Messi is estimated to have a net worth of 850 million. This is based on salaries, endorsements, smart contracts, and long-term investments. It was not an overnight event and surely not a result of football alone.

The article describes the wealth of Messi in a simple and straightforward manner, where he got his money, how it accumulated and why he is not a billionaire on record.

Talent Without Money

Messi was born to Argentinean parents in 1987 in Rosario, Argentina. His family was of a simple life. His father was a steel factory worker and his mother part-time house-cleaner. Football had been an aspect of daily living not a business strategy.

Messi was not like the rest since childhood. Other kids were slower, less intelligent and less technical than him. However, all was put at stake when he was diagnosed to have a deficiency in the growth hormone. The cost of the treatment was high and his family was unable to pay.

Local clubs were not helpful to a large degree. This is when Barcelona intervened. The club had assured the family to pay his medical bills in case he relocated to Spain. This move redefined the life of Messi.

Where the Money Began

Messi joined Barcelona’s youth system as a teenager. Over time, he became the heart of the club.

Performance That Changed Football

During his time at Barcelona:

He scored 672 goals in 778 matches
He won multiple league titles and Champions League trophies
He became the club’s all-time top scorer

This level of performance made him priceless to the club—and extremely valuable financially.

The Historic Barcelona Contract

In 2017, Messi signed a contract that shocked the football world. Leaked details later showed:

Average yearly base salary of around $160 million
Total yearly earnings close to $200 million with bonuses and endorsements

At his peak, no footballer earned more per year than Messi.

Career Earnings vs Net Worth

Many people believe Messi is a billionaire. That idea comes from mixing up two different things.

Total Career Earnings

Over his career, Messi has earned:

Over $1.2 billion in salary
Around $400 million from endorsements
More than $1.6 billion in total income

Why His Net Worth Is Lower

Net worth is not the same as earnings. It includes:

Taxes
Living costs
Real estate purchases
Business expenses
Charitable donations

After all that, Messi’s net worth is estimated at $850 million, not one billion dollars.

Paris Saint-Germain

In 2021, Messi left Barcelona and joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

At PSG:

He earned about $75 million per year before tax
Around $40 million per year after tax
He also received bonuses and merchandise revenue

Although his time in Paris was short, it added tens of millions to his wealth.

The $1 Billion Saudi Offer He Turned Down

In 2023, reports claimed Messi was offered an incredible deal from Saudi Arabia.

The offer included:

Nearly $1 billion total value
About $400 million per season

Despite the massive money, Messi rejected the deal. Instead, he chose a move that gave him long-term control and stability.

Inter Miami

Messi joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer in 2023. This deal was very different from any contract he had signed before.

Base Salary

Around $60 million per year

Ownership and Revenue Share

A share of Apple’s MLS Season Pass revenue
A 10% ownership stake in Inter Miami after his contract ends

With the club valued near $2 billion, that ownership stake alone could be worth $200 million or more in the future.

Endorsements

Messi has always avoided flashy behavior, but brands love him.

Adidas Deal

Sponsored by Adidas since 2006
Lifetime partnership
Signature Messi boot line

Annual Endorsement Earnings

Around $40–70 million per year

This money continues to come in even when he is not playing.

Saudi Tourism Promotion Deal

Messi also signed a separate tourism promotion deal linked to Saudi Arabia.

The agreement includes:

Paid vacations
Social media posts
Promotional appearances

The deal can pay him up to $25 million over three years for limited work.

Real Estate Investments

Messi has invested heavily in property.

Spain

Barcelona home bought in 2009
Current value estimated between $7–10 million

United States

Multiple luxury condos in Miami
A waterfront mansion in Fort Lauderdale
Future investments in high-rise towers still under construction

These properties help protect and grow his wealth long-term.

Charity and Giving Back

Messi has always stayed connected to his roots.

Leo Messi Foundation

Supports children’s health care
Helps with education and medical treatment

Additional Giving

UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador
Major donations during global crises
Salary cuts to protect club workers during COVID-19
Support for youth football clubs in Argentina

Personal Life and Smart Money Choices

Messi lives a quiet and stable life.

Married to Antonela Roccuzzo
Father of three children
Family manages most of his business affairs

This low-risk lifestyle has helped him protect his wealth over time.

Why Messi’s Wealth Will Keep Growing

Even after retirement, Messi will continue earning from:

Club ownership
Endorsements
Image rights
Real estate appreciation

His financial future looks just as strong as his football legacy.

FAQs

Is Lionel Messi a billionaire?
No, Lionel Messi is not a billionaire.

What is Lionel Messi’s net worth?
Yes, Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated at $850 million.

How much does Messi earn each year?
Yes, Lionel Messi earns around $75 million per year.

Did Messi reject a Saudi contract worth $1 billion?
Yes, Lionel Messi turned down a reported $1 billion Saudi offer.

Does Messi own part of Inter Miami?
Yes, Lionel Messi will receive a 10% ownership stake in Inter Miami.

How much has Messi earned in his career?
Yes, Lionel Messi has earned over $1.6 billion in total career income.