Lionel Messi buys fifth-tier soccer team in Catalonia

Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has purchased UE Cornella, a soccer team in Spain's fifth-highest division.

The Catalonia-based club announced the news on Thursday but no financial terms were disclosed.

"This move reinforces Messi's close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia -- a connection rooted in his years at FC Barcelona and sustained ever since," the team said in a news release.

Cornella (16-7-7) currently sits in third place in Group 5 of Spain's Tercera Federacion.

"Leo Messi's arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club's history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent," the team said. "The project is guided by a long-term vision and a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and a strong connection to its local roots."

Messi is in his fourth season with Inter Miami. The 38-year-old Argentine forward is the two-time reigning MLS MVP and a record eight-time winner of the Ballon d'Or award as the world's greatest player. He won the MLS Cup with Miami in 2025 and won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022.

--Field Level Media