Lionel Messi is set to become part of a rare sporting phenomenon, with Inter Miami announcing a stand at their new stadium will bear the Argentine’s name while he remains an active player.

The “Leo Messi Stand” at the Nu Stadium will honor their 38-year-old captain, breaking from tradition where such tributes typically celebrate retired greats of the game.

“Traditionally, tributes look to the past. They are built from nostalgia. From memory. This one is different,” the club said in a statement on Friday.

The club added: “This one is born from the present. From what is happening right now. From what you feel every time Leo steps onto the pitch.”

The 26,700-seat stadium is scheduled to host its first game on 4 April, when Inter Miami welcome Austin FC.

Since joining the club, co-owned by former England midfielder David Beckham, in 2023, Messi has guided them to three trophies: the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and the MLS Cup last year.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is also the club’s all-time leader in goals (82) and assists (53) in 94 appearances.

Earlier this month, Messi scored his 900th career goal, becoming the second player to reach the mark in elite men’s football after his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi is also still starring on the international stage, having scored 115 goals in 196 appearances for Argentina.

He led the national team to World Cup glory in 2022, scoring twice in the final against France, and Argentina are due to defend their crown at this summer’s tournament.

It would be Messi’s sixth World Cup, although he is yet to officially confirm whether he will play or not.

Argentina are due to face Mauritania and Zambia in friendlies over the coming days as they ramp up their preparations for the World Cup.