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Whitecaps to Settle Class-Action Lawsuit with Fans over Lionel Messi No-Show
The settlement includes updated ticketing terms clarifying player appearances are not guaranteed and a $475,000 donation, with no refunds to fans who sued after the 2024 match.
- The Canadian Press reported Dec. 29, 2025 that a proposed settlement resolves a class-action over Lionel Messi and Inter Miami players missing a May 25, 2024 match, Vancouver Whitecaps FC and MLS agreed.
- At the centre of the lawsuit, the May 25, 2024 match at BC Place Stadium, Vancouver drew more than 51,000 fans and featured chants of `Where is Messi` when advertised stars did not play.
- The settlement would change ticketing language and add a Ticketmaster pop-up, including a $475,000 charitable donation and stating player appearances are not guaranteed in ticketing terms.
- The Whitecaps and MLS maintain they `deny any wrongdoing or liability`, class members can opt out until Jan. 28, 2026, and a court must approve the deal at an upcoming hearing.
- More than 3,000 fans signed a petition after ticket prices reached more than $600, far above the typical ticket price around $30, and if approved, the settlement will apply to all ticket holders worldwide.
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Vancouver Whitecaps reach proposed settlement in lawsuit seeking damages for 2024 Messi no-show
Fan alleged "bait-and-switch" in lawsuit launched after international superstars Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquet didn't show up as advertised with Inter Miami to play the Vancouver Whitecaps.
·Canada
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Sask Today+11 Reposted by 11 other sources
Whitecaps FC to settle class-action lawsuit with fans over Lionel Messi no-show
VANCOUVER — A proposed settlement has been reached in a class-action lawsuit over the non-appearance of soccer superstar Lionel Messi and other Inter Miami players in a match against Vancouver Whitecaps FC last year.
castanet.net+25 Reposted by 25 other sources
Whitecaps to settle class-action lawsuit with fans over Lionel Messi no-show
A proposed settlement has been reached in a class-action lawsuit over the non-appearance of soccer superstar Lionel Messi and other Inter Miami players in a match against the Vancouver Whitecaps last year.
·Kelowna, Canada
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources41
Leaning Left22Leaning Right1Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution78% Left
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources lean Left
78% Left
L 78%
C 18%
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