Browns Host World’s Most Famous "Footballer" in Cleveland
Lionel Messi to Play in Cleveland
The Cleveland Browns are set to host the world’s most famous "footballer," Lionel Messi, on April 19 against the Columbus Crew in the Browns’ 67,000-seat stadium, Huntington Bank Field.
First MLS Regular-Season Game in Cleveland
This will be the first MLS regular-season game played in Cleveland, which has previously hosted games featuring the U.S. men’s and women’s national teams.
Browns’ Owners View Game as Opportunity to Broaden Fan Base
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam also own the Crew and see the chance to hold the game in Cleveland as an opportunity to broaden their fan base.
"At Huntington Bank Field, we can welcome significantly more Crew fans, and it gives us an opportunity to engage with new fans in Northeast Ohio," said John Glessing, Haslam Sports Group’s chief of strategy and development.
Messi’s Accomplishments
Messi was named MVP this season despite missing 15 of Inter Miami’s 34 regular-season matches because of injuries or obligations to Argentina’s national squad. He scored 20 goals and assisted on 16.
Conclusion
The event is expected to be a significant draw for fans of both the Browns and the Crew, and a chance for the Haslam family to showcase their stadium to a wider audience.
