In response to the controversy surrounding Lionel Messi's no-show at a friendly match in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has announced plans to implement clear guidelines for event organizers. These guidelines will require organizers to prepare contingency plans in advance to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has instructed relevant authorities to review the incident and optimize arrangements for future events. Despite the event organizer, Tatler Asia, withdrawing its "M" event status and government sponsorship application, Lee emphasized that the organizer remains responsible for addressing the concerns of disappointed fans.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism, with lawmaker Michael Tien Puk-sun calling it a "great insult" that Messi made his explanation in Tokyo rather than Hong Kong. Tien has urged the government to demand refunds from the event organizer or ban it from hosting events in the city.
Lawmaker Kenneth Fok Kai-kong has also criticized Inter Miami and Messi for their disrespectful behavior towards Hong Kong fans. He revealed that the SAR government organized a high-level welcoming ceremony for Messi's arrival, which the team left before it ended. Fok believes that Inter Miami should apologize to Hong Kong fans and that Tatler Asia focused solely on marketing without considering the fans or the sport.
The Major Sports Events Committee has been tasked with reviewing the incident and considering revisions to the standards and criteria for approving "M" mark events. However, Vice-Chairman Vincent Cheng Wing-shun has emphasized the need for flexibility to maintain the creativity of events.
5 Comments
Matzomaster
We should all work together to ensure that future events are successful and enjoyable for everyone.
Rotfront
This is just another slap in the face to Hong Kong fans. Messi and Inter Miami showed us no respect, and now the government wants to reward the organizers for their incompetence?
Africa
Government sponsored events should be held to a higher standard. This whole debacle is an embarrassment for Hong Kong.
Rotfront
This is a clear case of putting profit before the fans. Shame on the government and the organizers.
Comandante
So the organizers get a slap on the wrist and a chance to review their mistakes? What about the fans who paid good money to see Messi and were left disappointed?