Houston Dynamo Offers Free Tickets in Messi’s Absence

HOUSTON (March 2, 2025) – Houston Dynamo FC announced they will provide complimentary future tickets for fans attending their match against Inter Miami CF at Shell Energy Stadium on Sunday, March 2. This decision follows the news that superstar forward Lionel Messi did not travel with his team for the game.

The Dynamo expressed their enthusiasm in a statement, saying, “We are excited to host Inter Miami CF at Shell Energy Stadium on Sunday evening. Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent. However, we look forward to an incredible atmosphere and celebration of soccer for the city of Houston. Fans who attend can claim a complimentary ticket for a future Dynamo match this season, with details to follow next week.”

Fans had been eagerly anticipating Messi’s participation, but the absence of the Argentine forward set expectations for the match. As rumors emerged over the weekend regarding his travel plans, the Dynamo’s initiative aims to ease the disappointment for ticket holders.

This match is particularly significant as it marks the first competitive absence of Messi in 2025. He had previously played in Miami’s Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures and their regular-season opener but will not join the team for this matchup. Tickets for the upcoming match remained at a premium on resale markets, with entry prices reported above $200 prior to the announcement.

Houston’s proactive approach is part of a broader trend in Major League Soccer, where teams have sought to provide added value to fans when Messi is absent. Previous examples include the Vancouver Whitecaps’ offering of discounts and meal vouchers during his absence in the 2024 season. Other franchises, such as the Chicago Fire, also provided account credits for future purchases.

Despite Messi’s absence, fans are still expected to flock to the stadium for what promises to be an electrifying match between two competitive teams. The Dynamo’s campaign aims to attract a robust turnout, buoyed by their ticket incentive.

As the Dynamo prepare to face off against Inter Miami, they will look to secure a victory to kickstart their 2025 season following a challenging start.