Tatler to seek compensation from Inter Miami for Messi's absence: sources

Tatler Asia is taking legal action against Inter Miami CF and seeking compensation for the financial loss incurred due to the absence of Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi in the exhibition match held in Hong Kong in February, according to sources.

This came after the refund process is nearing completion as Tatler, the match organizer, announced that they would offer a 50 percent refund to those who purchased match-day tickets via official channels.

According to Tatler's disclosed comprehensive income statement, the event was initially expected to generate HK$13 million in profit. 

It was learned that if everything has gone smoothly with Messi's appearance, Tatler would have received an additional HK$16 million in subsidies, including a matching grant of HK$15 million and a HK$1 million venue subsidy from the Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund, bringing the profit to HK$29 million.

However, after refunding a total of approximately HK$56 million, Tatler ended up with a loss of HK$43 million for the event.

Tatler described Messi's subsequent appearance in a match in Japan a few days later as "another slap in the face" as the local Hong Kong football fans did not receive the respect they deserved.