Inter Miami celebrated their 2025 MLS Cup triumph with a historic White House ceremony on Thursday, though the franchise's most prominent owner was conspicuously missing from the occasion.
Lionel Messi and his teammates received recognition from President Donald Trump in Washington DC, marking the traditional honour bestowed upon American sports champions.
David Beckham, however, was nowhere to be seen during the landmark event for the club he founded.
The former England captain had initially planned to accompany the delegation but was compelled to stay in Europe owing to a pre-existing personal obligation, meaning he missed this significant milestone for his franchise.
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The 50-year-old's absence stemmed from scheduling rather than any deliberate snub to the Trump administration.
A White House official told CNN that the Manchester United legend stayed in Europe to support his family, specifically attending Victoria Beckham's fashion show.
With his wife's brand holding considerable significance on the international fashion circuit, the Miami co-owner opted to prioritise her professional milestone over the ceremonial Washington visit.
Inter Miami celebrated their 2025 MLS Cup triumph with a historic White House ceremony on Thursday, though the franchise's most prominent owner was conspicuously missing from the occasion
|GETTY
Fellow board members stepped in to represent the ownership group in his stead, ensuring the club's leadership was still present for the occasion despite Beckham's inability to attend.
The squad that travelled to the capital boasted an impressive array of talent, featuring former Barcelona stars Messi and Luis Suarez.
Beckham had hoped to lead this star-studded delegation personally but circumstances dictated otherwise.
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| GETTYThursday's ceremony served as powerful validation for what began as an expansion franchise joining MLS as its 25th team just a few years ago.
The club's meteoric ascent from newcomers to champions represents one of the most remarkable transformations in American football history, with the White House visit cementing their status among the nation's elite sporting organisations.
Beckham's influence on football in North America has been transformative, evolving from his groundbreaking stint as a designated player at LA Galaxy to becoming the principal architect behind the Miami project.
His masterstroke was persuading Messi to relocate to Florida, a move that converted a fledgling expansion side into a genuine global force virtually overnight.
The championship success and subsequent presidential recognition represent the culmination of Beckham's ambitious vision for the club.
Lionel Messi was all smiles as he met Donald Trump | GETTYMeanwhile, Trump hailed Messi while speaking at the ceremony.
"Coach [Javier] Mascherano became one of the few managers to win the MLS Cup in his very first season," he said. "And Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career the most of all time.
"Can you imagine that? You could have gone anywhere in the world, chosen any team but you chose Miami.
"I don't blame you the weather is pretty great."