Argentina and Inter Miami CF star Lionel Messi is facing a multi-million dollar lawsuit after allegedly missing a friendly with Argentina, with Miami’s promoter claiming breach of contract. The case revolves around a reported $7 million settlement linked to Messi’s participation in exhibition matches.
The lawsuit, filed by Vid Music Group against Messi and the Argentine Football Association, alleges that the superstar breached contractual obligations related to two friendly matches held in the United States last year.
According to the legal filing, the promoter was secured exclusive rights to organize and commercialize Argentina’s matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico, with Messi’s appearance central to the deal.
The contract reportedly required Messi to play for a minimum amount of time in both games unless ruled out due to injury.
The controversy stems from the first game, where Messi did not take the field against Venezuela and instead watched the game from the stands at the Hard Rock Stadium.
The absence has raised concerns for the promoter, especially given Messi’s global draw and the premium attached to his presence.
The situation was complicated when Messi played for Inter Miami the following day and scored twice in a league match, which the promoter said when questioning the circumstances of his absence from the friendly.
Messi returned for the second match against Puerto Rico, but by then logistical changes and reduced demand for tickets had affected the event. The match was moved to a smaller venue and ticket prices were reduced in an attempt to increase attendance.
The promoter claims that Messi’s absence from the first match and the overall disruption to the event resulted in significant financial losses, although the exact compensation sought has not been publicly specified.
Neither Messi nor the Argentine Football Association have yet issued an official response, and the matter will now be resolved through the courts.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
16 Apr 2026 16:05 IST
