Inter Miami has been officially crowned as the winner of the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield. After a year-long long of fervently shedding blood, sweat, and tears, the Herons finally found themselves clinching their hands on the prestigious trophy—except for the fact they actually didn’t. Despite a triumphant win over Columbus Crew, Lionel Messi and Co. were rather sent home without being handed over the Supporters’ Shield.

The reason you ask? Well, there are several theories to this. Firstly, as reported by renowned journalist Favian Renkel, the Supporter Shield is said to be in Columbus and Inter Miami players are allegedly celebrating with the trophy inside the locker room. Even though the team won’t be getting a special presentation after the game, they have been given a chance to celebrate the silverware privately.

However, the problem doesn’t end here for Inter Miami. As per the reports from an ISC [Independent Supporters Council] member in the Soccer Wise HQ discord that was compiled by journalist Caleb Pongratz on X, Miami still hasn’t been crowned as the champions. Previous season holders FC Cincinnati remain the latest shield winners for now. This is because none of Inter Miami CF’s supporter groups are part of the Independent Supporters Council.

For those unaware, ISC is the organization that oversees and maintains the Supporters’ Shield. While four of Miami’s groups have applied to join, if none are accepted, they won’t be able to hold the shield. The issue is further compounded by the fact that even if Miami has groups involved in the voting process, it could still take a few weeks for potential approval.

This surely creates a new controversy in Miami’s bid for winning the Supporters’ Shield. It remains to be seen how quickly their bid is accepted to join the ISC and finally get their hands on the much-deserved title. Now hypothetically, even if all the formalities are fulfilled, when exactly can we see them showcase their trophy to the fans?

When Will Lionel Messi and Inter Miami finally get their MLS Supporters’ Shield?

Keeping aside the ISC factor, the decision to not hand over Inter Miami the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield is fair and logical. Already, Tata Martino’s side was in their rival’s home which is around over 1024 miles away from their home ground Chase Stadium. Hence, they may get to unleash their silverware in front of thousands when they are playing at home. However, fans would have to wait for it until the final matchday.

That’s because, after this Ohio visit, the David Beckham-owned club will travel to BMO Field to face Toronto. The final fixture of the regular season against the New England Revolution is on October 20, that too, at Chase Stadium. Then, there’s certainly no reason for them to not showcase their first-ever Supporters’ Shield in front of their ardent fans. But then again, Inter Miami shall quickly resolve their alleged issue with the ISC.