MLS prize money: How much Lionel Messi, Inter Miami take home after beating Vancouver Whitecaps

Inter Miami will receive $300,000 in prize money, while Vancouver earns $150,000 as runner-up.

Inter Miami won its first-ever MLS Cup on Sunday, beating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3–1 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. Lionel Messi provided two assists in the final, including the setup for Rodrigo De Paul’s go-ahead goal in the 71st minute.

What happened at the game?

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates winning the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final match between Inter Miami CF and Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Chase Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Getty Images via AFP)

Inter Miami claimed their first MLS Cup title with a 3–1 win over Vancouver. Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende scored late, both from Messi assists.

Vancouver controlled long stretches of the match and created several good chances. Thomas Mueller led their attack, but Messi’s influence proved decisive as he earned his first MLS league title.

Miami scored early in the eighth minute. Messi played Allende into space, and his low cross deflected off defender Edier Ocampo for an own goal.

Vancouver equalized in the 60th minute when Ali Ahmed drove into the box and fired a low shot that slipped past Ríos Novo.

Miami retook the lead in the 71st minute. Messi intercepted a loose touch and set up De Paul, who finished calmly.

Prize money

Inter Miami will receive $300,000 in prize money, while Vancouver earns $150,000 as runner-up, according to Athlon Sports. The payout structure remains the same as last year.

Messi named MVP

Lionel Messi was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the MLS Cup. He finished the postseason with six goals and nine assists.

(With inputs from Reuters)