Lionel Messi launches new business venture to rival Cristiano Ronaldo and it could earn him millions

Lionel Messi has launched a "truly unique and inspirational" business venture to rival Cristiano Ronaldo as he continues to build his brand away from football.

The 37-year-old Inter Miami forward has added a range of ventures to his already-impressive portfolio in recent years, including real estate, hospitality and technology.

And now, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is making moves in the fragrance business with his debut scent; Leo Messi Eau De Parfum.

Inspired by the man himself, this scent is said to capture "the essence of Messi's humble yet powerful persona" and is designed to "evoke the hidden strengths and quiet confidence that resides within us all."

Not only that, Leo Messi Eau De Parfum claims it is "a reminder that, like Messi, you have layers of strength, depth, and authenticity that define who you are."

Messi himself says he has always been passionate about fragrance and is "extremely excited" about producing his own signature scent.

A 100ml bottle of Leo Messi Eau De Parfum is currently priced at $110 [£84].

More and more footballers are starting to delve into the fragrance business but one of the most prominent figures of the scene is Cristiano Ronaldo, who launched his debut fragrance, Cristiano Ronaldo Legacy, in 2015.

He now has a range of colognes, including CR7 Discover, which was launched this year.

According to Forbes, the 39-year-old's estimated total earnings in the last 12 months were around $260 million (£205m), which is an all-time high for a football player.

That being said, his trademark CR7 perfume has not become a resounding success, according to the above report. Still, you would expect that Ronaldo is making a healthy amount from the venture.

Image credit: chemistwarehouseaus/Lionel Messi

Going back to Messi's new fragrance, it is said to capture "the essence" of the Argentine as a world champion, a father and a gentleman.

"This unique Eau de Parfum strikes a harmonious balance between invigorating freshness and enveloping warmth," the website reads.

Frank Voelkl, who is the Principal Perfumer at DSM-Firmenich, added: "The scent is designed to provoke a profound emotional connection. At the intersection of 'freshness' and 'warmth', the fragrance is a confident, intriguing, and unique Eau de Parfum that is also designed to have mass global appeal."