Messi Mania: Fútbol Fever Hits Greater Fort Lauderdale
Visit Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL, the home of Major League Soccer team Inter Miami
Soccer, or fútbol, ignites a passion like no other sport, especially among devoted fans who follow their favorite teams and players with unwavering dedication. Consider Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Inter Miami, whose home is actually in Fort Lauderdale’s Chase Stadium. This team stands out for several reasons, not the least of which is its impressive ownership, including soccer legend David Beckham. But what truly sets the excitement ablaze is the addition of fútbol phenom Lionel Messi, also known as “The GOAT”. Fresh off leading Argentina to a 2022 World Cup victory, Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has electrified fans and renewed enthusiasm for the sport in the United States. His move marks a new era for the team and the local soccer scene, promising thrilling matches and unforgettable moments for fans.
Inter Miami’s heart beats in Fort Lauderdale’s Chase Stadium, a state-of-the-art soccer haven capable of hosting 19,100 spectators. Beyond the main arena, the facility boasts a sprawling 50,000-square-foot training center and seven pristine playing fields, underscoring its commitment to nurturing the sport at all levels. Chase Stadium is not only the proud home of Inter Miami. It also opens its fields to the MLS NEXT Pro team Inter Miami CF II and is a nurturing ground for future stars through the MLS NEXT youth soccer academy.
Get Your Pink Gear and Go!
Visitors to Chase Stadium can deepen their soccer experience by exploring the team store. This vibrant hub offers a fantastic way to see the stadium’s inner workings and provides an excellent opportunity to purchase official team merchandise. From jerseys and scarves to unique memorabilia, the store is a treasure trove for any soccer enthusiast eager to bring home a piece of the action. Inter Miami’s distinctive pink team colors were a personal decision by owner David Beckham to reflect the energy of South Florida and has inspired fan phrases such as “real soccer fans wear pink.”
Score a Stay Near the Action
For those planning an extended stay, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers a seamless blend of excitement and relaxation through its diverse beach hotels, each embodying the unique local beach culture. Imagine unwinding at the Plunge Beach Resort in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, where the tranquil and quiet ambiance invites you to relax by the ocean’s edge. If you prefer a touch of history and charm, the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa in Pompano Beach provides a nostalgic fishing village experience, perfect for those who cherish a sense of tradition. For those seeking a lively atmosphere with a plethora of dining options, bars, and vibrant nightlife, the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is the place to be.
Meanwhile, for soccer fans, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Hollywood serves as an ideal retreat. Here, you can enjoy easy access to soccer matches while basking in the luxury and top-tier hospitality featuring a world-class casino, delicious dining, and live entertainment.
Best Spots to Enjoy Messi-Inspired Brews and Bites
Inter Miami, with soccer royalty Beckham and Messi, is undeniably at the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s sports scene. The city’s hunger for Inter Miami is palpable, with local businesses joining the celebration. Funky Buddha Brewery has crafted Messi’s Maté IPA, a nod to the Argentina star’s heritage. Over at the Hard Rock Cafe in Hollywood, you can savor the Messi Burger and the Messi Chicken Sandwich, each bite a tribute to the soccer legend. Even Rossano’s pizza truck at Chase Stadium is in on the action, offering the FugaMezzi white pizza, a delicious homage to Messi.
If you can’t score a ticket to see Messi play at Chase Stadium, there are plenty of other ways to catch the excitement. Mickey Byrnes Irish Pub & Restaurant in Hollywood, the official pub partner for Inter Miami, offers a free beer to anyone wearing the team’s gear when Messi scores his first game goal. For a more upscale viewing experience, head to the Palm Room sports bar on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, where numerous televisions broadcast all the Inter Miami matches, ensuring you never miss a moment.
More Ways to Play
While fútbol may be the driving force behind many sports fans visiting South Florida—thanks to major tournaments like Copa América 2024, and the FIFA Club World Cup—there’s an array of other sports and events capturing the global spotlight. These illustrious events have firmly positioned the region as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts.
Take Fort Lauderdale United FC, South Florida’s only professional women’s soccer team, which has been gaining popularity and support. The Florida Panthers, the region’s pride in professional ice hockey, recently celebrated a historic victory by clinching the 2024 Stanley Cup. Meanwhile, the sporting landscape continually evolves with innovative venues like The Fort, the world’s first pickleball stadium, which has become a beacon for fans of this rapidly growing sport. The recently renovated Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and International Swimming Hall of Fame complex also stand out, attracting swimmers and sports fans from around the globe.
On Par for a Perfect Day
Greater Fort Lauderdale’s 35 world-class courses are a paradise for golf enthusiasts. Among the highlights are Eagle Trace Golf Club in Coral Springs and Pompano Beach Golf Course. These courses boast designs by architectural legends such as Donald Ross, Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, and the links-legend Greg Norman. Each course offers a unique challenge and breathtaking scenery, ensuring that every round of golf is a memorable experience.
Off-the-Field Fun
Greater Fort Lauderdale offers much more than just sports. The area’s pristine beaches, with their blue skies, golden sands, and warm waters, provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. After a day of soaking up the sun, thrill-seekers can dive into the coral reefs or embark on a lobster diving excursion, turning a beach day into an unforgettable adventure.
If shopping brings you joy, Greater Fort Lauderdale has you covered. Just point a finger in any direction to find many local shops and easily traversed malls. A must-visit is Sawgrass Mills, the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in the United States. This expansive shopping center boasts over 350 stores, including luxury outlets, dining options, and entertainment venues. For soccer fans, the Adidas Outlet Store at Sawgrass Mills is a treasure trove frequently stocked with Inter Miami gear, perfect for showing your team spirit.
From the bustling soccer matches at Chase Stadium to the serene beauty of its beaches, Greater Fort Lauderdale is a destination that caters to every kind of sports enthusiast. Whether you’re cheering for Messi, enjoying a themed burger, or diving into the deep blue, this tropical paradise offers many experiences that ensure your visit is anything but ordinary.
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