Why Fan Frustration is Rising Over Lionel Messi’s Absences from Inter Miami Matches: Lawsuits, Reactions, and Club Strategies

Lionel Messi won’t be on the field for every match with Inter Miami, and it’s a disappointment for many fans. Just ask the supporters of the Houston Dynamo, Chicago Fire, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

At 37, Messi is still an incredible player, but he can’t keep up his previous pace. While he dazzled fans during his peak at Barcelona, he never faced the extensive travel demands of the MLS season.

Recently, Messi missed a game against the Houston Dynamo. Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, clarified that it wasn’t due to an injury. Instead, it was a matter of managing his health amid a busy schedule, which includes MLS, the Concacaf Champions Cup, and the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

This absence isn’t a new issue. Fans are often left frustrated when their favorite players don’t show up, especially when the games have been heavily advertised. For example, in 2023, after Messi missed a match against the Chicago Fire, the team offered ticket rebates. They provided $250 off season tickets or a $50 voucher, yet many fans were still unhappy, despite the Fire winning 4-1.

Anticipating big games, the Vancouver Whitecaps sold ticket packages for their matches in 2024, which included a game against Inter Miami. Even with Messi and other stars like Sergio Busquets and Luis Suárez absent, the team still drew record crowds. However, some fans took legal action against the Whitecaps for what they called misleading advertising. One Canadian resident even filed a claim for $404 after purchasing pricey tickets.

In response to complaints, the Whitecaps didn’t issue refunds but did offer tickets to another game. They also partnered with the Canadian Premier League’s Vancouver FC, providing free admission to fans for purchasing Miami tickets. Unfortunately, the Whitecaps lost to Miami 2-1 in that match, adding to the disappointment.

Now, fans in Houston face a similar situation. Messi didn’t travel with the team for their match against the Dynamo. The club stated, “Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent,” reiterating how this trend is frustrating for supporters eager to see Messi in action.

Fans were upset, especially those who were primarily interested in watching Messi. Some resales were significantly marked up, with tickets going for about $200 initially, dropping to as low as $20 leading up to the game. This reflects the growing concern among MLS clubs as they schedule matches with a star-studded Inter Miami.

Looking ahead, Miami has a schedule full of long trips, including games against Minnesota United and Columbus. Fans can only hope Messi and the team can manage their schedules better this season, minimizing disappointments reminiscent of the past few years.

Source link