Read More
Tatler Asia still has to shoulder its social responsibility despite withdrawing the application for HK$16 million in government sponsorship, Chief Executive Lee Ka-chiu said, as he urged the organizer for Sunday’s exhibition game featuring Inter Miami to roll out more details and answer to supporters' demands.
ADVERTISEMENT
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT
The much-hyped fixture between Miami and a local league Hong Kong XI ended in boos and jeers after Argentina World Cup winner Lionel Messi and former Liverpool and Barcelona striker Luis Suarez were not fielded, sparking fans’ furiosity and calls for a refund.
Speaking on Tuesday, Lee said he was extremely disappointed as well after not seeing Messi play, adding the key issue was that the public’s expectation was not valued and taken care of.
“In promoting this event, the government did a lot of work to coordinate and provide assistance to the organizer to strive for the best possible outcome. The performance of the organizer has an impact on Hong Kong’s image and reputation,” Lee said.
“The government also has the responsibility to ensure public funding is spent appropriately, especially when such event is sponsored by the government.”
Lee noted that the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau had been closely monitoring the development and coordinating departments in addressing the organizer's needs.
He also stressed that the government and fans were extremely disappointed that the organizer failed to arrange even one of the suggestions or requests by officials after learning of Messi’s absence.
Lee said the bureau will continue to urge the organizer to proactively answer society’s demands, such as disclosing the arrangements with Miami and responding to fans’ requests on ticket arrangements.
Authorities will take this event into reference and review their supervising role in the future, Lee said.
He also thanked players of the Hong Kong team for their effort that day, displaying teamwork and sportsmanship.
