Organizers of a football friendly in Hong Kong that triggered huge outrage because of Lionel Messi's absence have started ticket refunds six weeks after the controversial game, it was announced on Monday.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami waves to the crowd ahead of their friendly against a Hong Kong League XI on Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Lo Ping Fai)
Tatler Asia said in a statement that a "50 percent refund" will be offered to customers who bought the tickets through official channels, some of whom paid up to 4,880 Hong Kong dollars (625 U.S. dollars) to see the game.
"Refunds will be processed within 30 days from the 12 April 2024 deadline," it said.
Customers that purchased tickets directly from Tatler Asia Limited, including tickets from event sponsors and partners, will be contacted by a dedicated account manager with information on ticket refunds, organizers said.
Messi outraged fans in Hong Kong when he failed to make an appearance as his club Inter Miami defeated a Hong Kong League XI 4-1 on February 4.
The Argentinian explained afterwards that his absence was due to a groin injury, but many Hong Kong fans were left unimpressed when he played for 30 minutes in another friendly against Vissel Kobe just three days later in Tokyo.
Amir Khan's £11.5m luxury wedding venue finally hosts its first marriage: Bride arrives on horse
'Holy mackerel... searing pain': Wildlife expert Coyote Peterson live
New leader of Jesse Jackson's civil rights organization steps down just months on the job
Sylvester Stallone breaks silence amid Tulsa King 'toxic workplace' scandal
Company wins court ruling to continue development of Michigan factory serving EV industry
Trump goes from court to campaign at a NYC bodega
Kiefer Sutherland reunites with Stand By Me co
China axes hundreds of TV dramas depicting family tensions — Radio Free Asia
Kristin Cavallari, 37, ignores critics of her age
Oregon State RB Damien Martinez among players entering transfer portal as spring window opens
Cruise worker 'murders newborn son on board ship': Shocked co
Tara VanDerveer's longtime assistant Kate Paye takes over as new Stanford coach