Dynamo Offer Free Future Ticket as Lionel Messi Misses Match vs. Houston
Houston Dynamo Offer Free Ticket Benefit After Lionel Messi's Absence from Inter Miami Match
Houston Dynamo Offer Free Ticket Benefit After Lionel Messi's Absence from Inter Miami Match
The Houston Dynamo are the latest MLS club to provide a goodwill gesture to fans after Lionel Messi was absent from Inter Miami’s away game. With news emerging that the Argentine superstar would not be traveling to Houston for Sunday’s regular-season match, the club quickly responded by offering fans a complimentary ticket to a future Dynamo game.
Houston Dynamo’s Official Statement on Messi’s Absence
In an official statement released Saturday evening, the club addressed the situation:
“The Houston Dynamo are excited to host Inter Miami CF at Shell Energy Stadium on Sunday evening. The recently shared player status report for the match did not include forward Lionel Messi, but it has been reported he did not make the trip to Houston. Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent.”
“We look forward to hosting everyone tomorrow for what will be an incredible atmosphere and celebration of soccer for the city of Houston. To show our appreciation, fans who attend tomorrow night’s match can claim a complimentary ticket to a future Dynamo match this season. Additional details will be provided early next week.”
High Ticket Prices Despite Messi’s Absence
Despite Messi’s absence, secondary ticket prices remained sky-high. As of Friday, the lowest-priced resale tickets exceeded $200, highlighting the continued demand for games featuring Inter Miami, regardless of whether their global icon takes the field.
Messi’s First Missed Match of 2025
Sunday’s game marks the first competitive match of 2025 that Messi has missed. The 37-year-old forward had previously played in both of Miami’s Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures against Sporting Kansas City, as well as the team’s MLS season opener against New York City FC. Messi contributed significantly in his last appearance, scoring the opening goal in Miami’s Champions Cup second leg to help his team advance to the Round of 16.
Messi’s availability has been a recurring topic since he joined Inter Miami in 2023. The star has often been rested for certain away matches, particularly when Miami’s schedule includes multiple games in a short period. Given the increased cost of tickets for Miami matches, several MLS clubs have taken steps to compensate fans when Messi does not play.
Other MLS Teams’ Responses to Messi’s No-Shows
The Houston Dynamo are not the first team to offer benefits after a Messi absence. The Vancouver Whitecaps provided a 50% discount on stadium food and a free kids’ meal voucher when Miami visited without Messi. In 2023, the Chicago Fire responded to Messi missing a game by offering a $250 credit toward season tickets for new buyers and a $50 credit for existing season ticket holders.
MLS Ticket Prices for Inter Miami Matches Remain High
Despite uncertainty around Messi’s availability, demand for tickets to Inter Miami games remains unparalleled in MLS. For instance, a May 10 matchup against Minnesota United at Allianz Field has a minimum resale price of $330—two months ahead of the match. With no guarantee of Messi’s presence, fans continue to pay premium prices for the chance to witness one of the greatest soccer players of all time in action.
As the season progresses, Messi’s availability for away matches will remain a critical factor for fans, ticket sellers, and clubs alike. Meanwhile, the Houston Dynamo’s ticket offer serves as a goodwill gesture to disappointed supporters, ensuring they have another opportunity to experience an exciting MLS matchday.
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