Florida is preparing for a soccer match between Orlando City Soccer Club and Inter Miami CF. The preseason event, called the Florida Derby, is scheduled for February 14, 2025, at Tampa's Raymond James Stadium, as announced by the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. This will be the first Major League Soccer match at the stadium since 2001.

The event is expected to sell out quickly because of Lionel Messi's appearance. His addition to Inter Miami CF has raised the team's profile and increased interest in MLS, resulting in more followers on social media and higher attendance since he joined, up to the tune of "100 million followers" and "13 million total fans," as per a USA Today report cited by FOX 13 News .

The matchup is expected to be more than just a game, featuring icons like Messi and notable players such as Sergio Busquets and Drake Callender from Inter Miami, along with Facundo Torres, Pedro Gallese, and Duncan McGuire from Orlando City. "We could not be more excited to welcome Inter Miami CF and Orlando City SC to our community," expressed Rob Higgins, Executive Director, Tampa Bay Sports Commission, in a statement obtained by WFLA . "To have the potential opportunity to see a generational icon such as Lionel Messi take the field in our hometown is truly special. This is something that people will tell their grandkids about."

Ticket sales are set to begin next Tuesday for Orlando City SC season ticket members, followed by a sales window for newsletter subscribers the next day, as reported by Orlando City Soccer Club's official website . Tickets will go on sale to the public next Thursday. Alongside the main event, there will be a pregame fan festival for attendees.