The Kambi bookmaker recently revealed some data about the increase in sports betting in the United States following the arrival of Argentine star Lionel Messi at Inter Miami and consequently Major League Soccer (MLS).
And Messi’s arrival also had a direct impact on the increase in audience and popularity of c globally.
Ahead of the 2023 MLS Cup, data from Kambi’s global partner network reveals a 33% increase in betting, driven by Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami CF, making them the most bet on team of the year in MLS.
The 2023 season stands out as the most bet on in MLS history
The popularity of Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham, has seen a remarkable rise, jumping from 15th place in 2022 to leading the betting this season.
Bets on Inter Miami surpassed those on Los Angeles FC by 44%, and the team was involved in eight of the ten most bet games.
Messi, with eight Ballon d’Ors and the title of Athlete of the Year by Time Magazine in 2023, globalized MLS, especially in Latin America.
Kambi records indicate a significant increase in betting in Latin American markets, including Argentina, which saw a 135% increase compared to 2022.
“Lionel Messi’s arrival in MLS was a milestone for the league, and the possibility of his future partnership with former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez is looking increasingly likely.
Messi’s global appeal and charisma have captured the attention of fans around the world, resulting in a significant increase in betting engagement on MLS matches,” said Jonathon Hurst, Head of Football at Kambi.
Messi lidera as apostas na MLS nos últimos quatro anos, ultrapassando Zlatan Ibrahimović e Carlos Vela como o mais apostado de todos os tempos.
In 2023, bets on Messi are 140% higher than those on Denis Bouanga, left winger for Los Angeles FC, in second place.
2023 MLS Betting Favorites
When analyzing Kambi’s insights into the 2023 MLS, it is noted that Inter Miami CF is the most bet team, followed by Los Angeles FC and FC Cincinnati.
Lionel Messi leads the betting, surpassing Denis Bouanga and Dániel Gazdag.
The most exciting games included clashes such as Los Angeles FC vs Inter Miami CF and Atlanta United FC vs Inter Miami CF.
Messi’s Power in MLS
The Argentine redefined betting in MLS: more games, more bets and more enthusiasm. Not only has Messi become the most bet on player in MLS in 2023, he is claiming the title of most bet of all time.
