The epic showdown between Messi and Son Heung Min set a historic record in MLS

With 75,673 fans packed into the Memorial Coliseum, Lionel Messi and Son Heung Min’s appearance marked a historic milestone as LAFC and Inter Miami set a record for the biggest MLS opening game crowd.

The 2026 MLS season opener match between Los Angeles FC and Inter Miami made history by drawing 75,673 spectators at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the highest attendance ever recorded for an opening round in the league’s history.

The extraordinary appeal of Lionel Messi continues to prove his commercial value and global influence. The presence of the Argentine superstar, alongside big names like Son Heung Min, turned the match into an unmissable sporting event in Los Angeles. Messi alone is enough to ignite any stadium into a “cauldron,” and this occasion was no exception.

The figure of 75,673 spectators is not only a record for an opening match but also the second highest independent attendance in MLS history. This achievement is only surpassed by the 82,110 fans who filled the Rose Bowl during the El Tráfico match between LA Galaxy and LAFC in July 2023.

Moving the venue from the home BMO Stadium (which seats 22,000) to the Coliseum was seen as a strategic decision by LAFC. With its superior capacity and central city location, the Coliseum created an electrifying atmosphere rarely seen at an MLS game.

Notably, despite several top European matches taking place on the same day, including games featuring Real Madrid and Manchester City, the MLS showdown attracted the largest global audience that day. This highlights how American soccer is increasingly asserting its place on the world stage.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber shared on social media: “History has been made. This is the largest crowd in MLS history for a season opener between LAFC and Inter Miami.” On the pitch, LAFC secured an impressive victory, while off the field, MLS took center stage on the opening day of the new season.