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Disrupted Dreams: The Messi Mess and Sustainable Sports in Hong Kong

Writer's picture: GEB GroupGEB Group

Messi Abstract Digital art  with green Earth Brands Logo
Messi - Digital Art by GEB

The anticipation was palpable in Hong Kong's sporting community as Argentine football legend Lionel Messi was slated to grace the pitch for at least 45 minutes during a pre-season friendly. However, what ensued was a debacle that not only left fans disappointed but also raised crucial questions about the sustainability of major sporting events.


Messi, the 36-year-old World Cup-winning captain, found himself sidelined due to a hamstring injury, much to the dismay of the 38,000 eager spectators who had gathered at the Hong Kong Stadium. Their jeers and calls for refunds echoed through the stands as Messi watched from the bench during a 4-1 victory.


The fallout from Messi's absence extended beyond the disappointment of fans. The Hong Kong government, which had allocated significant funding amounting to HK$16 million for the event, expressed discontent and hinted at reclaiming the funds. This incident underscores the need for accountability and foresight in organising such events, especially when public funds are involved.


The event organiser, Tatler XFEST Hong Kong, and Inter Miami, the visiting team, faced criticism for their handling of the situation. With tickets priced as high as HK$4,880, attendees rightfully expected Messi's participation, only to be met with disappointment. The government's call for the organiser to explore remedies emphasises the importance of ensuring that commitments made to fans and stakeholders are honoured.


Beyond the immediate fallout, this incident serves as a catalyst for discussions on sustainable sports events. The sustainability of such events encompasses various aspects, including financial responsibility, environmental impact, and social engagement. In this case, the focus lies on the responsible allocation of resources and the need for contingency plans to mitigate risks such as player injuries. Tatler a leading media company should have anticipated the risk of Messi not playing and communicated the same to avoid setting up false expectations. As any Messi and Inter Miami fan knows this is not the first time Messi has been sidelined due to injury leading to fans being let down.



Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung highlighted the importance of learning from this incident to improve the 'M' mark system, which designates major international sporting events. As the government evaluates the performance of the event and decides on the fate of the funding, it must prioritise transparency and accountability.


Moving forward, stakeholders must collaborate to ensure that sporting events in Hong Kong uphold standards of sustainability. This entails proactive risk management, clear communication with fans, and a commitment to honouring commitments made to the public. By integrating sustainability principles into event planning and execution, Hong Kong can foster a culture of responsible sportsmanship and enhance the overall fan experience.


As Inter Miami moves on to its next destination, the lessons learned from the Messi Mess should serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in the world of sports. Whether on the pitch or in the planning stages, sustainability must remain at the forefront of every decision to ensure the longevity and integrity of sporting events in Hong Kong and beyond.


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