Lionel Messi's Preseason Tour Sparks Diplomatic Row and Fan Outrage

Messi's absence in Hong Kong game leads to diplomatic tensions and fan backlash, while his subsequent appearance in Japan adds fuel to the fire.

Lionel Messi's failure to play in a Hong Kong preseason match with Inter Miami leads to a surge of anger and a diplomatic incident, sparking tensions across China, the United States, Argentina, Japan, and Hong Kong.
Messi's non-appearance in the Hong Kong game, heavily promoted with his image, leaves fans feeling cheated and prompts a Hong Kong politician to call for him never to return.
Chinese state-affiliated media suggest, without evidence, that Messi may have been acting under instructions from external forces aiming to undermine Hong Kong.
Messi's subsequent participation in a friendly match in Japan, just days after the Hong Kong incident, intensifies the backlash and geopolitical tensions.
Chinese sports authorities cancel two friendly matches that Messi's Argentina national team was slated to play in March, further escalating the situation.