Renowned football legend Lionel Messi celebrated as the most decorated player in the history of fútbol, is set to assume the esteemed role of the icon for Royal Caribbean’s cutting-edge cruise liner, the Icon of the Seas. The unveiling and naming ceremony are scheduled to take place at PortMiami during the grand inauguration on January 23, marking a momentous occasion for the world’s largest cruise ship.
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Having clinched the prestigious Ballon d’Or award on eight occasions and being hailed as Time’s 2023 Athlete of the Year, Messi’s association with the Icon of the Seas underscores the vessel’s significance in the realm of luxury cruising. His presence will undoubtedly add a touch of sporting grandeur to the inaugural celebration.
Lionel Messi named ‘icon’ of Royal Caribbean’s new ship
Messi, often recognized as the greatest footballer of all time, has left an indelible mark on the sport, setting numerous records throughout his illustrious career. His recent venture with Royal Caribbean’s partner, Inter Miami CF, and the subsequent triumph as the Leagues Cup champion has further solidified his standing as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). In embracing this new role, Messi is poised to extend his influence beyond the football pitch, becoming an integral part of the Icon of the Seas experience.
The GOAT-father. Lionel Messi announced as the Godfather of Icon of the Seas pic.twitter.com/PWt2Kp92Mg
— Gary Davies (@scousegit66) December 13, 2023
Expressing his enthusiasm, Messi conveyed, ‘I’m thrilled and honored to join the Royal Caribbean family to celebrate the arrival of the game-changing Icon of the Seas. Icon surpasses anything else available for family vacations, boasting incredible never-before-seen features, all meticulously designed to create unforgettable memories together.’
This development follows Royal Caribbean’s strategic move to become Inter Miami CF’s primary partner and official vacation collaborator a few months ago. The Icon of the Seas is anticipated to mark the next chapter in this partnership, promising exciting details yet to be unveiled.
Michael Bayley, President, and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, articulated the significance of the Icon of the Seas, stating, ‘Icon of the Seas is the culmination of more than 50 years of delivering memorable vacations, and it’s set to live up to its name in more ways than one when it changes the vacation industry in January 2024. The icon of Icon must personify the ability to make a widespread impact and change the status quo, and Lionel Messi has consistently exemplified that for years in the world of sports, recently ushering in a new era of excitement and passion for fútbol in Miami and the US.’
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In anticipation of this groundbreaking collaboration, the sports superstar’s involvement as the icon for the Icon of the Seas promises a fusion of luxury and athleticism, creating a unique and unparalleled experience for cruise enthusiasts.