The organizers of a Hong Kong football match expressed deep regret for Lionel Messi's absence and announced the withdrawal of a $2 million government grant bid. Tatler Asia's CEO confirmed Messi's contractual obligation to play, unless injured, in a pre-season friendly, where he stayed on the bench due to a leg muscle strain.

 

The 4-1 win for Inter Miami led to boos from disappointed fans, resulting in the withdrawal of the grant application.Michel Lamuniere, Tatler Asia's Chairman and CEO, stated that they informed the government about Messi's non-participation only at half-time, contradicting earlier assurances from Hong Kong's sports minister. Fans, who paid significant sums, chanted for refunds and jeered as Beckham attempted to thank them.

 

Tatler Asia withdrew the grant application after acknowledging the disappointing outcome and revealed they informed the government promptly. However, conflicting accounts emerged regarding when officials were informed of Messi's injury, an inflammation of an abductor muscle, which led to the last-minute revelation.The consumer council received 38 complaints, involving HK$216,964, with the largest individual complaint at HK$22,338. The council highlighted misleading promotional materials, suggesting legal action might be considered.

 

Hong Kong's sports minister requested alternative solutions, such as Messi interacting with fans or receiving the trophy, but these attempts failed. The controversy prompted calls for independent legal advice on potential contract breaches and civil lawsuits.Inter Miami and Messi were scheduled for a pre-season match in Tokyo against Vissel Kobe, with uncertainty regarding Messi's recovery.

 

The 36-year-old had played only six minutes in the previous match in Saudi Arabia, and the new MLS season in the U.S. was set to start on February 21.