Fans booed Manchester United great David Beckham and demanded refunds after Lionel Messi failed to appear in a pre-season game in Hong Kong. Messi, who has been nursing a hamstring injury, watched from the sidelines as Inter Miami defeated a Hong Kong XI 4-1.
Social media videos show fans yelling “refund” and booing during Beckham’s post-match address. The Hong Kong government expressed dismay and warned that match organisers Tatler Asia may face funding cuts.
In a statement, the government said: “The Government today voiced significant displeasure over Messi’s absence from Tatler XFEST Hong Kong, Hong Kong Team vs Inter Miami CF, and the organiser’s failure to provide a thorough explanation swiftly.
“The Major Sports Events Committee (MSEC) has awarded the event “M” Mark status, as well as a matching grant of 15 million [Hong Kong dollars; £1.5 million] and a venue grant of 1 million.”
“The Government has also provided a variety of coordination and assistance, including venue arrangement and crowd management, in order to offer football fans a wonderful game and an opportunity to witness the world-class player showcasing his skills.”
They went on to say, “Many Hong Kong supporters eagerly anticipated the event, and a large number of tourists came to Hong Kong specifically for it. The Government, as well as all football fans, are extremely upset that Messi could not play in the friendly match or explain to the people in person upon request.
“The way the organizer and Inter Miami CF handled the matter fell short of the expectations of the fans who showed significant support for Messi, particularly those who traveled all the way here for the game.
“The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and the MSEC will rely on the terms and conditions of the agreement in requiring the organiser to take responsibility, including a reduction of the amount of funding as a result of Messi being not able to play in the match.”
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