Inter Miami CF, led by football superstar Lionel Messi, is headed to the city next month and will take on a specially invited Hong Kong team in an exhibition match.

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Kevin Yeung noted that the match has been awarded “M” Mark status, an iconic recognition for major international sports events held in Hong Kong. Moreover, the Government has earmarked a matching grant of $16 million and approved a range of support measures for the organiser, Tatler Asia.

In addition, 15,000 free tickets for Inter Miami CF’s open training session on February 3 will be distributed for free to students, young athletes, disabled athletes and grassroots families. Some of the club’s top players will also meet budding young footballers during their stay in Hong Kong.

At a press conference today, Tatler Asia Chairman & CEO Michel Lamunière hailed the event as a way to harness the power of sports to inspire the minds and spirits of Hong Kong youth. 

“We believe that they are all the key to the future of our city. That is why providing them - particularly those with limited access to such opportunities - with this once-in-a-lifetime experience to learn from one or several of the world’s best players is essential to this grand celebration.”

Chairman of The Football Association of Hong Kong Eric Fok thanked the Government for its support in bringing large-scale football events to Hong Kong, which help highlight the city’s edge as a hub for major events.

The match between Inter Miami CF and the Hong Kong team will take place on February 4 at Hong Kong Stadium. Tickets are already sold out, but the public can watch a live broadcast on free television.