MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
The MLS and Vancouver Whitecaps will pay a $347,000 settlement due to Lionel Messi’s unexpected absence from a highly anticipated 2024 game.Summary
The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer have agreed to a $347,000 settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit stemming from Lionel Messi’s absence from a game on May 25, 2024. The Whitecaps heavily promoted Messi’s appearance, leading to increased ticket prices, but Inter Miami coach Tata Martino ultimately decided to keep Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets from traveling to Vancouver to prioritize their health ahead of upcoming home games.
A civil claim was filed by ticket holder Ho Chun, who argued that promotional materials implied Messi’s participation. While MLS and the Whitecaps denied liability, they opted to settle to avoid further legal expenses, with the agreement containing no admission of wrongdoing.
The $475,000 Canadian dollar settlement amount, after legal fees, will be donated to KidSport BC, Canada SCORES, and BGC South Coast BC, three sports-related charitable organizations.
(Source：Yardbarker)