After much anticipation and a record crowd expected for this weekend’s Vancouver Whitecaps versus Inter Miami CF match, the star of the show will not step foot on the pitch.
In a Thursday night news release, the Whitecaps announced that Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets will not play in Vancouver this weekend.
ššāØ #FutbolFiesta pic.twitter.com/FZuZW16d4m
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) May 22, 2024
“While we haven't received an official update on the availability of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets for this weekend, we understand they will not make this trip,” said Axel Schuster, Whitecaps FC CEO.
“Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent and it was important for us to communicate to our fans as soon as possible.”
The Whitecaps expect an MLS-era club record of more than 50,000 fans at the game on Saturday, with many converging to see Messi's generational talent.
“No one player is bigger than the club they represent,” wrote Peter Czimmermann, president of the Vancouver Southsiders.
“It is unfortunate that many young kids will miss out on watching their idol play soccer live.”
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— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) May 22, 2024
Following the news of Messi and the other players not coming to Vancouver, the team announced that all in-stadium food and beverages would be 50% off at the match.
“We know that there will also be a lot of disappointed fans. We remain committed to making this a special experience for everyone,” added Schuster.
“It is still going to be an incredible atmosphere and celebration of soccer for our city. We have amazing fans, we have a good team, and Saturday's match is a very important home game for us."
