Lionel Messi will “perform the traditional naming duties” and be referred to as the ship’s “Icon”.RIVAL CARIBBEANFor its newest vessel, Icon of the Seas, “the world’s largest cruise ship,” Royal Caribbean is assigning Lionel Messi “godfather duties,” as reported by Richard Tribou of the ORLANDO SENTINEL. “It’s scheduled to start sailing from Miami next month,” the ship says. Messi will “perform the traditional naming duties given to a ship’s godmother or godfather,” earning him the title of “Icon” for the vessel.Messi is scheduled to participate in the naming ceremony in January, where he will be wished safe travels by everyone on board the ship. Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, stated that Messi’s selection and “switching up” to “Icon,” as the brand refers to its godfather, was “apropos for the groundbreaking ship” (ORLANDO SENTINEL, 12/13).