Soccer fans in Vancouver were incredibly disappointed on Thursday when it was announced that Inter Miami’s biggest stars aren’t making the trip to Canada for Saturday’s game.
Despite all three being healthy and playing in Inter Miami’s previous game vs. D.C. United, the trio will hang back home.
Tickets prices skyrocketed for what was expected to be a record 50,000+ attendance at BC Place. The Whitecaps released a statement sharing their disappointment with fans and offering 50% off food and drinks.
Messi, Suarez and Busquets skip out on Vancouver trip
NEWS | Vancouver Whitecaps FC issue an official statement regarding the upcoming match against Inter Miami CF this Saturday, May 25 at BC Place. #VWFC | #VANvMIA
— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) May 23, 2024
“We always want our best players going up against our opponent's best players, and facing players of the highest pedigree was especially exciting for our team. We know that there will also be a lot of disappointed fans,” Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster said in a statement.
“We remain committed to making this a special experience for everyone. 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."
An exact reason hasn’t been given for their absence by the club. Many believe that the combination of the 6,000-mile round trip, turf field and congested schedule are all playing into the decision.
After Miami’s game on Saturday the Herons will host Atlanta United on Wednesday and then play in Fort Lauderdale again three days later vs. St Louis City.
Three games in the span of the week might be too much for the aging stars.
Saturday will mark Messi’s seventh time missing a game this season across all competitions.
