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Lionel Messi’s recent absence from a highly anticipated meet-and-greet event in Lima, Peru, has led to an investigation by the National Consumer Protection Authority (Indecopi). The incident occurred before Inter Miami’s preseason friendly against Universitario de Deportes, leaving many fans disappointed and raising questions about consumer rights and advertising practices.
Key Takeaways
- Messi skipped a meet-and-greet event in Lima, disappointing fans who paid over 3,000 soles for tickets.
- Indecopi has launched an investigation into potential breaches of advertising regulations.
- Despite his absence from the event, Messi played 72 minutes in the match, which Inter Miami won on penalties.
The Controversy Unfolds
The controversy began when fans who purchased tickets for the exclusive meet-and-greet event were left without the chance to meet their idol, Lionel Messi. The event was marketed as a unique opportunity to interact with the soccer superstar, leading to high expectations among attendees.
According to reports, Messi’s absence was confirmed by local media, which stated that he did not attend the pre-match event. This left many fans feeling cheated, especially considering the significant amount they had paid for the experience.
Indecopi’s Investigation
In response to the numerous complaints received, Indecopi announced that it would investigate whether there had been any violations of consumer rights or misleading advertising related to the event. The authority’s statement emphasized the importance of protecting consumers and ensuring that event organizers adhere to advertising regulations.
The investigation will focus on whether the promotional materials for the meet-and-greet accurately represented the event and if fans were misled about the likelihood of meeting Messi.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The anticipation surrounding Messi’s visit to Peru was palpable. Local media outlets celebrated his arrival with headlines like "Dios está en Perú" ("God is in Peru"), reflecting the immense popularity of the player. Fans eagerly awaited the chance to meet Messi, and many wore his jerseys, which quickly sold out in stores.
Despite the disappointment regarding the meet-and-greet, Messi did play in the friendly match against Universitario de Deportes. He participated for 72 minutes, during which he engaged positively with the crowd, clapping for fans at the packed Estadio Monumental.
Match Outcome
Inter Miami ultimately triumphed in the match, winning 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. The team’s victory was celebrated, but the shadow of the meet-and-greet controversy lingered. The players who scored in the shootout included Julian Gressel, Santi Morales, David Ruiz, Benjamin Cremaschi, and Yannick Bright, while Universitario’s Jairo Vélez missed his attempt.
Looking Ahead
As Inter Miami continues its preseason tour with upcoming matches in Panama and Honduras, the fallout from this incident may have lasting implications for the club’s reputation and its relationship with fans. The investigation by Indecopi will likely be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how similar events are organized in the future.
The situation highlights the delicate balance between celebrity culture and consumer expectations, particularly in the world of sports, where fans often invest significant resources to connect with their idols.
