Lionel Messi, Argentina Sued for Failing to Appear in Venezuela Friendly
Events Company Files Suit Over Unplayed Match
A Miami-based events company, VID Music Group, has filed a suit against Lionel Messi and the Argentine football federation for failing to appear in a friendly match against Venezuela in Miami last year. The suit claims that Messi had agreed to play a minimum of 30 minutes in the fixture, unless he was injured.
Terms of the Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement between the Argentine football association and VID, Messi was required to play 30 minutes in two friendlies between Venezuela and Puerto Rico. However, on October 10, Messi watched the fixture between his side and Venezuela from the stands. The day after, he played for Inter Miami and bagged two goals in a 4-0 win.
- Messi was required to play 30 minutes in two friendlies
- The matches were against Venezuela and Puerto Rico
- Messi opted not to play in the Venezuela friendly
Consequences of the Suit
The suit claims that Messi and the Argentine football federation breached their agreement, which was worth $7 million.
The agreement was clear: Messi had to play 30 minutes, unless he was injured.