Lionel Messi effect: Apple CEO Tim Cook tweets as MLS subscribers skyrocket

tech.hindustantimes.com:

The "Messi Magic" is proving to be a game-changer for MLS Season Pass, as it has logged a remarkable surge in subscribers following the entry of soccer icon Lionel Messi into the league. The exponential growth has been confirmed by Inter Miami club owner Jorge Mas, who shared the news via a tweet.

It has been a big triumph for Apple CEO Tim Cook who as the strategic venture into sports broadcasting is reaping significant rewards, highlighted by the expanding popularity of the MLS Season Pass offering. This boost has been largely facilitated by Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. The effect has been so good that CEO Tim Cook took to Twitter to post, "Tune in tomorrow to watch Messi and all the Leagues Cup action with #MLSSeasonPass on @AppleTV."

While Apple doesn't disclose precise figures, CEO Tim Cook acknowledged Messi's positive influence during the recent earnings call, expressing enthusiasm for the unexpected uptick in subscribers. Cook stated, “We're surpassing our subscriber expectations, and Messi's presence at Inter Miami has undoubtedly contributed to this success. We're thrilled about it.”

Jorge Mas, the Managing Owner of Inter Miami, reported that MLS Season Pass subscriptions have more than doubled since Messi's arrival at the club. Additionally, Spanish-speaking viewership has exceeded 50% during Messi's matches, underscoring his impact on both domestic and international audiences.

In addition to announcing the doubling of the subscriber base, Jorge Mas emphasized the growing fanbase for Spanish-language streams on MLS Season Pass. Every MLS game is broadcast in both English and Spanish, each with its own dedicated commentary team. The fact that over half of viewers during