David Beckham marked a symbolic milestone in Inter Miami CF’s journey by sharing an exclusive sneak peek of the club’s forthcoming permanent home, Miami Freedom Park, where he personally became the first to kick a football on the grounds. On January 16, 2026, the 50-year-old co-owner posted a series of images to Instagram, capturing the ongoing construction progress at the 25,000-seat stadium located near Miami International Airport. The photos showcased the skeletal structure of what promises to be one of the most modern soccer venues in the United States, complete with a distinctive roof canopy beginning to take shape, vast open spaces destined for seating and pitches, and heavy machinery dotting the site.

In one striking frame, Beckham—dressed casually yet unmistakably stylish—launches a soccer ball across the unfinished playing surface, surrounded by cranes, trucks, and scaffolding. The act was both playful and poignant, as he captioned the post: “Miami Freedom Park… coming VERY soon 🩷🏟️ quick trip to check on progress of our new home and I can’t quite believe how incredible it’s looking…. had to be the first to kick a football here 😆⚽️.” The post quickly amassed hundreds of thousands of likes and comments, with fans expressing excitement over the rapid advancement since groundbreaking in August 2023.

Miami Freedom Park represents far more than a stadium for Inter Miami. The 131-acre development, fully privately funded by club ownership, includes 58 acres of public parkland designed by Arquitectonica, featuring green spaces, community soccer fields, athletic courts, restaurants, shops, and a tech hub. The centerpiece remains the 25,000-capacity venue, designed by Manica Architecture with a retractable roof element and state-of-the-art facilities to host MLS matches, concerts, and events year-round. Beckham’s vision, first approved by Miami voters in a 2019 referendum with over 60% support and finalized by city commission in 2022, aims to create a vibrant community destination that generates significant economic impact—projected at over $40 million in annual tax revenue and 15,000 direct and indirect jobs—without relying on public funds.

The timing of Beckham’s visit aligns with accelerated construction updates reported throughout January 2026. Recent drone footage and progress reports indicate the roof canopy installation has begun, with seating installation expected to follow soon after. The project remains on schedule for an April 2026 opening, with the inaugural match set for April 4 against Austin FC, ushering in Inter Miami’s first full season in their dedicated home after years at the temporary Chase Stadium. This transition comes on the heels of the club’s landmark achievement: winning the 2025 MLS Cup, their first major trophy, defeating Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in the final. The success, fueled by stars like Lionel Messi, has heightened anticipation for the new era.

Beckham’s personal touch in kicking the inaugural ball underscores his deep investment in the project beyond financial and ownership roles. As a former global icon whose career spanned Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and more, he has long championed the growth of soccer in the United States. Bringing a world-class facility to Miami positions Inter Miami as a flagship franchise in MLS, capable of attracting top talent and rivaling the league’s biggest draws. Recent partnerships, such as the expanded deal with Lowe’s making them a main partner, official jersey sleeve sponsor, and founding partner of Miami Freedom Park, further bolster the infrastructure and branding efforts.

Fans have reacted with overwhelming enthusiasm online. Comments on Beckham’s post flooded with praise, from “Bend it like Beckham 🔥” to pleas like “I want to be there April 4 Miami Freedom Park 😍.” The symbolic first kick has sparked discussions about Messi’s potential contributions in the new venue, with many speculating on historic moments yet to come—perhaps a trademark free-kick curling under the new lights or a packed house chanting during high-stakes derbies.

The development also highlights broader trends in MLS stadium evolution. Miami Freedom Park joins a wave of modern venues opening or planned for 2026, emphasizing fan experience, sustainability, and multi-use capabilities. Its location near the airport enhances accessibility for international visitors, while the surrounding entertainment district promises to draw crowds beyond matchdays. For Inter Miami, the move signifies maturity: from expansion club to champions, now anchored by a bespoke home that reflects the ambition of its ownership and star-studded roster.

As construction races toward completion, Beckham’s sneak peek serves as a teaser for what lies ahead. The unfinished pitch where he struck that ball will soon host elite competition, community events, and memories for generations. Miami Freedom Park is not just a stadium—it’s the realization of a vision to elevate soccer in South Florida and cement Inter Miami’s place in the sport’s future. With the opening just months away, excitement builds for the day when the stands fill, the roof gleams, and the first official kick marks the start of a new chapter.