Fans get 50% refund as Messi misses friendly match amid controversy

Football enthusiasts in Hong Kong, who were disappointed by Lionel Messi’s no-show at an exhibition game last month, have been offered a 50 percent refund by the event’s organizer, Tatler Asia, provided they refrain from taking legal action. This offer, reported by the AFP news agency on Monday, March 18, is available to those who bought their tickets through official outlets and are willing to accept certain terms, including not initiating any legal proceedings related to the event.

Fans had shelled out between 880 Hong Kong dollars ($110) to 4,880 Hong Kong dollars ($624) in hopes of seeing Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, dazzle on the pitch against a selected team from Hong Kong. Despite expectations, the celebrated footballer, a recipient of eight Ballon d’Or awards, did not participate due to an injury, much to the displeasure of the attendees. This absence was controversial, with some in China interpreting it as a political slight.

Interestingly, Messi was active in games against Vissel Kobe in Japan and had played in Saudi Arabia before the Hong Kong event. Following the uproar over his absence and subsequent criticism from fans, the Beijing Football Authority decided against hosting Messi and his team. This decision came even as Argentina was scheduled to play Ivory Coast, the reigning African champions, in a friendly match during the international break.

Addressing the speculation and criticism, Messi made a rare public statement through a video, dismissing claims that his absence was politically motivated or for other alleged reasons. He emphasized his past visits to Japan and China as counterarguments to such speculation.

Messi also shared that he attempted to play during Inter Miami’s training session before the Hong Kong game, despite feeling discomfort. He stressed his efforts to participate but ultimately couldn’t play to avoid aggravating his injury.