Hong Kong needs to more closely vet private sector event promoters who get public funds in wake of Lionel Messi anger, analysts say
- Lawmaker Elizabeth Quat says events that leave fans disappointed risk reputational damage as well as public cash
- Tatler Asia announces it will withdraw its HK$16 million application for government support in wake of ill-fated Inter Miami match where Messi failed to play
They told the Post public-private partnerships should still be used to help attract big sporting events, but that there was a risk of damage to the city’s reputation if others suffered similar controversies.
The sector experts and lawmakers were speaking after Michel Lamuniere, the chairman and CEO of Tatler Asia, the event’s organiser, said on Monday the group would withdraw its application for HK$16 million (US$2.04 million) in funding under the “M” Mark system, a designation for flagship sporting events which qualifies organisers for millions of dollars in public cash.
“The damage is much more than HK$16 million,” lawmaker Elizabeth Quat Pei-fan said. “A mega event is not just a single event, it’s about the whole reputation of Hong Kong.”
The friendly between a Hong Kong XI and Inter Miami at Hong Kong Stadium on Sunday ended with boos and demands for refunds after Messi, featured heavily in promotion for the game, failed to play.
