Lionel Messi Takes Center Stage: A Super Bowl Debut and Soccer Sensation in the USA
Super Bowl LVIII, set to take place on February 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, promises not only an exciting football showdown but also a star-studded lineup of commercials. Among the celebrities gracing the coveted ad slots is the legendary Argentinian soccer player, Lionel Messi. A two-time World Cup winner and eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient, Messi is set to feature in a 60-second advertisement for Michelob Ultra, marking his debut in Super Bowl commercials. The teasers released showcase Messi enjoying moments with friends at a bar and running down the beach playing soccer with a charming dog.
The cost of Super Bowl commercial slots has reached staggering heights, with last year’s 30-second ads selling for $7 million. With Messi’s advert spanning a minute, the production could potentially cost as much as $14 million. This significant investment reflects the high-profile nature of Super Bowl commercials, where A-list celebrities often earn substantial paychecks. In 2021, some stars reportedly earned $7 million or more for their appearances in these iconic ads.
Beyond the commercials, the Super Bowl halftime show is set to feature Usher as the performer, adding to the entertainment spectacle. The event will also showcase musical talents such as Reba McEntire, Post Malone, and Andra Day, contributing to the diverse and star-studded lineup for the evening. As anticipation builds for the game scheduled to kick off at 6:30 PM Eastern time, fans can look forward to not only an intense football match but also an array of captivating performances and advertisements, including Messi’s Super Bowl debut.
In the realm of soccer, Messi’s recent move to Inter Miami has brought a new dimension to the sport in the United States. The 36-year-old star initiated Inter Miami’s preseason tour on January 19 in El Salvador, where the team played a friendly match against the national team at the Cuscatlan Stadium. Messi’s impact was palpable, as his presence even moved a young fan to tears upon receiving tickets to the game. The preseason journey concludes on February 15 with a match against Newell’s Old Boys at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, setting the stage for the official start of the MLS season on February 21, when Inter Miami hosts Real Salt Lake at DRV PNK Stadium.