Inter Miami stars Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi have unveiled a groundbreaking soccer initiative that is sure to thrill fans in South America—particularly those in Uruguay. The announcement came via a heartfelt video that captivated social media, where the two global icons spoke of a shared vision for the future of the game.
The idea began years ago, planted quietly and nurtured in the background even as both players continued to dazzle at the highest level of world soccer. The revelation that Messi and Suarez have co-founded a new soccer club in Uruguay, named Deportivo LSM, marks a bold new chapter in their storied careers.
“This is a project you’ve been building for years,” Messi said in a video shared on Suarez’s social platforms. “Now being part of it alongside you is very special.”
The initials “LSM” stand for Luis Suarez and Messi, a symbolic fusion of their names that reflects their decades-long friendship and on-field partnership. The duo, who thrilled fans at Barcelona and now at Inter Miami, are now united by something more enduring: a vision to shape the future of soccer in Uruguay.
From dream to reality
Deportivo LSM will begin competing in 2026 in the fourth division of Uruguayan soccer, officially known as the Segunda División Amateur. But while the club starts at the base of the soccer pyramid, its ambitions reach much higher.
Suarez, Uruguay’s all-time top scorer, revealed that this project has been a family dream in the making since 2018. “We have over 3,000 members, a solid infrastructure, and more than 80 professionals working every day to support the development of children and teenagers,” he explained. “We want to give young people the opportunities and tools we didn’t have growing up.”
Messi, winner of the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, echoed that sentiment, noting the emotional pull of working alongside the Uruguayan star once again. “Being part of this with you is an honor. I’m happy you invited me and chose me for this project. I hope to contribute everything I can to help us grow,” said the Argentine superstar.
Facility fit for a revolution
The club’s base of operations will be the Luis Suarez Sports City, a sprawling modern complex near Montevideo that includes natural and synthetic fields, several mini-stadiums, and a combined spectator capacity exceeding 2,000. The infrastructure reflects the club’s long-term vision of becoming a powerhouse in youth development.
“Today I want to offer Uruguayan soccer, which I love and grew up with, the opportunities and tools to help all teenagers and children grow,” said Suarez. “That’s why, with the club, we want to begin competing in the AUF (Uruguayan Soccer Federation) world.”
Even before officially entering the national league, Deportivo LSM has already made strides in youth soccer, with a women’s U16 team and participation in amateur leagues. The club’s mission is clear: to serve as a launchpad for young talent, creating pathways that might one day lead to the world’s biggest stages.
