The Chicago Fire recently made an announcement stating that they are offering a fan-first credit guarantee for their upcoming game against Inter Miami on August 31 in case Lionel Messi is unable to play due to an injury. Fans who purchase tickets between now and the game day will be eligible for a $250 discount on two or more new 2025 Chicago Fire Season Ticket Memberships or a $100 discount on two or more single match tickets for the 2025 home match against Inter Miami.
For those who have already bought tickets for the August 31 game, including single-match and Season Ticket Members, they will have the opportunity to claim two complimentary tickets to the Fire’s 2024 Fan Appreciation Night for the October 19 match against Nashville SC if Messi is unable to play against Inter Miami.
Messi, who left the Copa América final in the 66th minute due to a non-contact ankle injury, is out indefinitely as he suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle. Inter Miami’s head coach, Gerrado “Tata” Martino, mentioned in a press conference that Messi is expected to miss “at least” two games.
In their first game without Messi, Inter Miami managed to secure a 3-1 victory over Toronto. As the Fire prepare to face Inter Miami this Saturday, they will once again be without the presence of Messi on the field.
The initiative taken by the Chicago Fire to offer vouchers to fans in case Messi misses the game due to injury shows their commitment to prioritizing the fans’ experience and ensuring that they are not left disappointed in case of unforeseen circumstances. This gesture not only shows appreciation towards the fans but also helps in building a strong relationship between the team and its supporters.
It is commendable to see sports teams going the extra mile to take care of their fans and provide them with added value, especially in situations where star players may be unavailable due to injuries. This kind of fan-first approach can help in creating a loyal fan base and fostering a sense of community among supporters of the team.
As fans eagerly await the outcome of Messi’s recovery and his eventual return to the field, the Chicago Fire’s gesture serves as a reminder of the importance of fan engagement and the efforts made by sports organizations to prioritize the fan experience. Let’s hope for Messi’s speedy recovery and a thrilling game between the Chicago Fire and Inter Miami, regardless of his presence on the field.