Fans who missed out on watching Lionel Messi play at Inter Miami’s exhibition match in Hong Kong on February 4 will receive a 50% refund, provided they waive their right to take legal action, the event organizers announced on Monday.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami had angered spectators – some of whom had paid up to 4,800 Hong Kong dollars (570 euros) – when the Argentine remained on the bench on February 4 during a match against a local selection of players from Hong Kong. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner cited an injury at the time, and his attitude – not addressing the crowd to apologize – was roundly criticized.

Messi Had To Explain

The player was forced to explain himself in the aftermath, assuring the public that his absence from the pitch was not due to “political reasons” and recalling his “very good and close” relations with China.