Fans who paid a fortune to watch Lionel Messi play in Hong Kong were left fuming after the soccer superstar failed to show up on the pitch. The organisers of the match, Tatler Asia, expressed their deep regret and withdrew their bid for a $2 million government grant. But was that enough to appease the angry crowd?
The match between Inter Miami and a Hong Kong select XI was supposed to be a thrilling spectacle featuring Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and captain of Argentina. Instead, it turned into a nightmare for the organisers and a disappointment for the nearly 40,000 fans who had shelled out large sums to see their idol in action.
Messi, who has a leg muscle strain, stayed on the bench throughout Inter Miami’s 4-1 win, despite being named among the substitutes. The match ended with Messi, his Inter Miami team and club co-owner David Beckham being booed off by the irate fans who chanted “Refund!” and gave thumbs-down signs.
Tatler Asia’s CEO read out a statement on Monday evening confirming Messi had been contracted to take the field, unless injured, in the pre-season friendly in Hong Kong. He said the organisers were made aware that Messi would not play only at half-time, and “Tatler Asia immediately informed the government”.
However, Hong Kong’s sports minister said he and officials were repeatedly assured Messi would play, even after half-time. It was not until 10 minutes from the final whistle that they were informed that Messi’s injury would keep him out.
The match had received “M mark” status from the government, meaning it was a major sporting event with official backing. The organisers had received $15 million in funds for the match and a $1 million venue subsidy.
Hong Kong’s consumer council said it had received 38 complaints from 29 residents and nine overseas visitors about the match by midday on Monday. They involved a total of $27,700 spent, with the largest individual complaint amounting to $2,860.
The council said it was reasonable for consumers to expect Messi to participate, as most of the promotional materials featured him. It advised consumers to seek independent legal advice on whether the incident breached a contract or could be subject to civil lawsuits.
Inter Miami and Messi are due to play the final pre-season match of their tour against Japan’s Vissel Kobe in Tokyo on Wednesday. Will Messi make an appearance this time, or will he disappoint his fans again? Only time will tell.
