Lionel Messi is facing a lawsuit filed by Miami-based promoter VID Music Group, alleging breach of contract and fraud after he failed to play in a scheduled exhibition match.

The case, filed in Miami-Dade Circuit Court, also names the Argentine Football Association and sports executive Julian Marcos Kapelan.

According to the complaint, VID had secured rights to organise Argentina’s friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico, with Messi expected to play at least 30 minutes unless injured.

Messi did not feature in the Venezuela match despite being present, though he later played and assisted in the Puerto Rico game.

The promoter claims Messi’s absence undermined the commercial value of the match, alleging the agreement was entered under false pretences.