In an exciting announcement this week, San Pedro Sula’s Mayor Roberto Contreras confirmed that the internationally celebrated football club Inter Miami CF will be making their way to Honduras to face off against C.D. Olimpia. This highly anticipated friendly match is scheduled for February 8, 2025, at the Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano. The match has already generated a buzz among local fans, especially with the presence of global football icon Lionel Messi, who plays for Inter Miami. The mayor’s social media post underscored the significance of this event, calling it a “great sporting spectacle” and emphasizing the warm welcome awaiting Messi and the team.
One interesting aspect that came out of Contreras’s announcement was the rationale behind holding the match in San Pedro Sula rather than the capital, Tegucigalpa. According to the mayor, San Pedro Sula’s international airport and the enhanced security measures at the Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano made the city a more suitable choice for hosting such a star-studded event. With logistical arrangements including specialized security protocols and dedicated spaces for the team, it’s clear that the local authorities are focused on providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere for both players and fans alike.
With the influx of fans expected for the match, Contreras has urged supporters to buy tickets and book flights to San Pedro Sula quickly, as he foresees a surge in demand to see Messi play live. The popularity of the sport, coupled with the opportunity to see one of the greatest players in history, is likely to make this match a momentous occasion for the region.
Upcoming Preseason and Competitive Matches for Inter Miami CF
Inter Miami CF is set to start its 2025 preseason with a match against Liga MX’s Club América on January 18, 2025, in Las Vegas, followed by their friendly showdown with C.D. Olimpia in Honduras. This dynamic team will also face Orlando City a week later at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. It signifies an exciting period not only for the team but also for fans who are eager to see how new head coach Javier Mascherano will perform in his maiden managerial outing.
As the Major League Soccer season kicks off on February 22 against New York City FC, Inter Miami is also preparing for their first competitive game of the year against Sporting Kansas City in the Concacaf Champions Cup. The previous year was a historic one for Inter Miami, where they claimed the 2024 Supporters’ Shield and set a league record for points in a single season, although they faced an early playoff exit against Atlanta United.
The upcoming match against C.D. Olimpia not only serves as entertainment for the fans but also acts as a catalyst for the growth of football culture in Honduras. Hosting a team like Inter Miami CF—particularly with Messi on the squad—has the potential to inspire local players and generate more interest in the sport among youth in the region. Moreover, it indicates a growing recognition of Honduras as a viable destination for international sports, enhancing the country’s visibility on the global sports stage.
The friendly match in San Pedro Sula promises to be a remarkable event, celebrating international football while fostering community spirit and sportsmanship.