The Government, as well as all football fans, are extremely disappointed that Messi could not play at Tatler XFEST Hong Kong, Hong Kong Team vs Inter Miami CF on February 4.
We have been urging the organiser, Tatler Asia, to explain again in detail its arrangement with Inter Miami CF concerning Messi’s participation in the match, and to respond positively to the demands of different sectors of the community.
In the past few days, we have been continuously discussing with the organiser, Tatler Asia, to identify viable options for handling the matter. The Consumer Council has also been subsequently engaged in the discussion.
The organiser, Tatler Asia, took the initiative to withdraw the application for “M” Mark Status on February 5, and also gave up on the $16 million sponsorship. Additionally, it announced today (February 9) that it will arrange half-refunds (i.e. 50 per cent) to local fans and those from outside Hong Kong who purchased tickets for the match through Tatler Asia’s official sales channels.
​The Government welcomes the decision. The Government is of the view that the compensation option is a responsible act by the organiser, Tatler Asia, which demonstrates its positive manner and sense of commitment. According to the accounts of the match, which were made publicly available by the organiser, Tatler Asia, it has made all efforts with sincerity to arrange for half-refunds (i.e. 50 per cent) with a view to responding to the demands of different sectors of the community.
The Government understands that different sectors of the community may still have many queries about the incident, particularly over Messi not playing at the match in Hong Kong due to injury, yet being able to actively play in Japan three days later, and also doing intense sports on the field for a certain period of time. The Government hopes that Inter Miami CF will eventually provide reasonable explanations to the people of Hong Kong and the fans who travelled to Hong Kong for the match.
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