Messi refused to apologize to Hong Kong fans

Lionel Messi is reported to have signed a contract to play for 45 minutes in Inter Miami's friendly match in Hong Kong but refused the offer to appease angry fans in Asia.

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The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is part of Inter Miami's international preseason tour in early 2024, with trips to El Salvador, Saudi Arabia, and the current stay in the Far East, sparking unrest among his supporters in Hong Kong.

However, Messi surprisingly sat on the bench during the match against the Hong Kong XI team, with El Pulga not even participating in the warm-up before the game. His absence triggered anger from fans—those who had cheered for Leo Messi and David Beckham.

China Daily reported that the Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Mr. Kevin Yeung Yun-hung, declared that event organizers had previously finalized a contract stating that Messi would play at least the second half of the match. It was also stated that Inter Miami only confirmed Messi's absence was entirely due to the South American player receiving treatment for an injury.

Messi only sat on the bench in the match against Hong Kong

Yeung also mentioned that proposals for Messi to speak with the infuriated fans were declined. Mockery and booing cascaded down from the stands at the end of the match, with many supporters demanding ticket refunds because Messi did not play and violated the contract.

The organizers, Mr. Tatler, stated in an official statement that they were not informed of Messi's absence for the full 90 minutes, and they currently cannot address the concerns of the fans at this time.

Inter Miami will now head to Japan to face Vissel Kobe before returning to the United States to kick off the new MLS season.