Messi’s mess requires an explanation

February 14, 2024

HONG KONG – “Messi’s Mess” in Hong Kong has made international headlines since Sunday. For the 38,000 soccer fans who paid exorbitant sums of money for the match tickets, the absence of Lionel Messi from the friendly between Inter Miami CF and the Hong Kong League XI brought great despair and bitterness.

To add fuel to their fury, the Argentinian superstar played for more than 30 minutes in Tokyo, Japan on Wednesday — three days after the team said it was too risky for him to play because of a hamstring injury.

The great disappointment, frustration and humiliation was felt far beyond local soccer circles and penetrated all sectors of the community. While all the stakeholders are watching closely to see if there will be any refund arrangements by the event promoter Tatler Asia, the Consumer Council of Hong Kong has received more than 820 complaints against Messi’s no-show, involving a total amount of about HK$5.6 million ($716,030).

A refund or another form of remedial measure by related parties to compensate those fans who paid to watch the match is essential. Hong Kong has also learned a lesson from the incident — a more prudent selection of event service providers and organizers is necessary. All parties involved should scrutinize details of the performance contracts and closely monitor negotiations and promotions to ensure consumers of maximum protection.

In this case, the most expensive tickets for the much-hyped exhibition match cost HK$4,880 and were selling for up to HK$12,000 on the internet.

All the tickets sold out soon after going on sale. Hong Kong also held a ceremony at the airport to receive the team on its arrival. However, the city’s warm reception for its distinguished guests was