When you track elite athlete fortunes, few garages draw as much fascination as Lionel Messi's. While some sports stars collect dozens of flashing supercars, Messi's fleet balances rare historical masterpieces, high-performance Italian coupes, and practical family utility.
The total value of his collection sits around $40 million to $50 million, heavily skewed by a single legendary classic. We'll look past the internet rumors to break down what he actually drives, how his collection shifted after moving to Inter Miami, and why certain viral myths persist.
The Crown Jewel: The Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti Myth
The most famous vehicle tied to Messi's name is the 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti. Reportedly purchased at an auction for roughly $36 million, this car is a true piece of motorsport heritage powered by a 4.0-liter V12 engine capable of hitting 300 km/h.
- The Auction Rumor: Rumors started because anonymous bidding led back to a proto organization, prompting whispers that Messi outbid rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
- The Reality: Messi himself famously poked fun at the rumor on social media by posting a picture holding a toy car. Most automotive historians view this multi-million dollar purchase as an internet legend rather than a verified garage resident.
Rare Hypercars and Italian Supercars
Moving past the auction house rumors, Messi's confirmed and heavily reported garage features serious engineering. He favors Italian design, balancing track-ready performance with classic lines.
Pagani Zonda Tricolore
Built in an extremely limited run of just three units, the Pagani Zonda Tricolore features a naturally aspirated 7.3-liter Mercedes-AMG V12 engine. Valued between $2 million and $4 million, it represents the pinnacle of modern hypercar craftsmanship, though Messi rarely drives it in public view.
Ferrari F430 Spider
Before any multi-million dollar auction myths arose, Messi purchased a modern classic: the Ferrari F430 Spider. Equipped with a 4.3-liter V8 engine and Formula 1-inspired tech, this convertible delivers a raw, open-air supercar experience without the extreme exclusivity of vintage racers.
Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale
The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale is one of the most frequently spotted sports cars from his time in Barcelona. Powered by a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8, it provides a distinct exhaust note and a grand touring layout built for comfortable high-speed cruising.
German Engineering and Daily Drivers
During his long tenure at FC Barcelona, Messi benefited from club sponsorship deals with Audi, building a reliable fleet of daily drivers that prioritized comfort and all-weather capability.
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: Famous for its gullwing doors and a 6.2-liter V8 engine, this supercar balances aggression with grand touring luxury.
- Audi RS6 Avant: A high-performance sports wagon offering twin-turbo V8 power paired with practical cargo space for family life.
- Audi Q7: A spacious SUV used extensively for daily errands and transporting family around Europe.
The Miami Era: SUVs and Family Transport
Following his move to Major League Soccer's Inter Miami, Messi's street presence shifted toward large, secure American and British utility vehicles designed for privacy and family comfort.
Cadillac Escalade
In South Florida, the full-size Cadillac Escalade serves as a primary daily driver. Featuring a 6.2-liter V8 engine, it offers the heavy security, privacy glass, and three-row seating necessary for moving a family through a bustling metropolis.
Range Rover Models
Messi has owned multiple iterations of British luxury, including the Range Rover SV Autobiography and the Range Rover Sport. These vehicles provide plush air suspension and high-end interior appointments while maintaining a lower profile than a neon supercar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lionel Messi actually own a $36 million Ferrari?
No concrete evidence confirms this purchase. While financial blogs love listing the 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti in his portfolio, Messi has publicly joked about the rumor, leaving it in the realm of internet folklore.
What was Messi's first car?
Early reports from his early days in Barcelona point to modest European city cars, including a Mini Cooper S Cabriolet, chosen for tight parking spaces before his garage expanded into high-end luxury.
How does Messi's car collection compare to Cristiano Ronaldo's?
Ronaldo's garage generally features a larger quantity of modern hypercars, including ultra-rare Bugattis and multiple modern Ferraris. Messi's collection leans toward a mix of select Italian exotics and practical luxury SUVs, keeping a tighter focus on daily usability.
What car does Messi drive in Miami?
He is most frequently spotted driving a full-size Cadillac Escalade or luxury Range Rover models that accommodate his family while offering discretion on American roads.
