FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Argentino Las Olas, a popular Argentine restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, has become a hub for soccer enthusiasts and fans of Lionel Messi. The restaurant, known for its empanadas and Argentine cuisine, pays homage to Messi and his homeland with a large poster of the soccer star outside its front door.
During Argentina's World Cup victory, the restaurant was bustling with patrons, showcasing the clear connection between the success of the national team and Argentine establishments like Argentino Las Olas. However, the excitement was expected to dwindle post-World Cup, but that changed when Messi joined Inter Miami CF, located just a short distance away.
Now, the restaurant has transformed into a gathering spot for fans to watch Messi play for Inter Miami CF. With the team's season opener against Real Salt Lake approaching, the restaurant anticipates a busy day ahead.
Messi's arrival in Miami has had a significant economic impact, extending beyond just Inter Miami. The team embarked on a global preseason tour, aiming to capitalize on Messi's star power for marketing purposes. Despite some setbacks during the tour, including Messi's absence from a game in Hong Kong due to injury, the exposure generated was invaluable for the club and Major League Soccer.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the challenges faced during the tour but emphasized the positive exposure it brought to the league. He highlighted the importance of international tours in promoting the sport and expressed hope for future collaborations between Inter Miami and Messi.
As Inter Miami gears up for the season opener, the team's manager confirmed the fitness of key players, including Messi, Busquets, Suárez, and Alba. Ticket demand for Inter Miami games has surged, with prices reflecting the high interest in seeing Messi in action. StubHub reported a significant increase in ticket sales for MLS games overall, attributing much of the growth to Messi's presence in the league.
With ticket sales soaring and international interest in MLS games on the rise, Messi's impact on the league's popularity is undeniable. As fans eagerly await the season opener, the anticipation surrounding Messi's debut with Inter Miami continues to drive excitement and engagement across the league.
