US President Donald Trump made a statement that is making the rounds of sports media when he spoke about the comparison between Lionel Messi and Brazilian legend Pele during a ceremony at the White House on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
The ceremony was organized to honor American club Inter Miami CF after its triumph in the 2025 MLS Cup. The event was attended by the team's players, league executives and other sports figures, while the spotlight was on Messi, who was praised for his impact on American soccer.
During his speech, Trump spoke of his memories of watching Pele play in the US with the New York Cosmos. He then addressed Messi directly and made a comment that caused a stir in the room.
"I'm a little old and I've seen Pele play. But it could be that you're better than him. Who's better?" Trump said, addressing the audience.
After reactions from the hall and chants of "Messi, Messi," the American president added: "I think he is," implying that he considers Messi greater than the Brazilian legend.
During the ceremony, Messi and his teammates presented Trump with a pink soccer ball and a personalized Inter Miami jersey. The Argentine star did not give a speech during the event, but was the center of attention throughout the ceremony at the White House.
The visit marked the first time Messi has attended a ceremony at the White House, as the Miami club was honored for its historic triumph in the American championship and for the great impact it has had in increasing the popularity of soccer in the United States.
In the end, Trump's statement on the eternal "Messi or Pele" debate reignited discussions among football fans around the world. /Telegraph/
