Anger over Messi’s absence in Hong Kong results to calls for partial refund

The organizer of a highly anticipated soccer match featuring Lionel Messi in Hong Kong has announced a 50% refund following backlash from disappointed fans and government officials over the absence of the World Cup winner.

Grievances from Hong Kong fans stemmed from Messi’s benching in a game against a local team earlier this week due to a groin injury, which escalated to mainland China after Messi played for 30 minutes in Tokyo in Inter Miami’s latest exhibition match in Asia.

Over the past two days, mainland China’s social media users expressed disappointment, with China’s state-run newspaper, the Global Times, noting the controversy’s impact extends beyond sports.

In an Instagram post, local organizer Tatler Asia apologized for the upset and expressed disappointment over the perceived lack of respect.

The organizer reiterated its plea to Inter Miami’s management to have Messi address the spectators, as per their contract requiring him to play for 45 minutes unless injured, which he didn’t fulfill.

Tatler Asia announced talks with the government on resolving the issue and plans to refund 50% of ticket costs purchased through official channels.

The announcement follows Tatler Asia’s decision to withdraw its funding application for the match from the city government.

While the Hong Kong government welcomed the refund arrangement, questions linger over Messi’s absence, especially after his active participation in Japan.

Inter Miami has not responded to requests for comment.

After facing criticism, Messi explained his absence in a Tokyo news conference and expressed regret for missing the game in Hong Kong on Chinese social media.

The editorial by the Global Times questioned Messi and Inter Miami’s explanations, suggesting possible political motives behind the incident.

Pro-Beijing politicians in Hong Kong and Chinese social media users weighed in, with some condemning Messi’s actions and others defending him.

The match in Japan concluded Inter Miami’s global promotional tour, with its preseason wrapping up on February 16th in Florida.