Organisers of last week's Inter Miami game in Hong Kong said on Friday they will give fans half their money back after the star they were there to see, Lionel Messi, failed to come off the bench.

Tatler Asia said it would announce details on the partial ticket refunds by the middle of next month.

"We will not escape our responsibility as organisers and that is why Tatler Asia will offer all those who purchased match-day tickets from the official channels a 50 percent refund," a statement said.

Tatler said the refunds will mean the HK$13 million profit it was expecting from the event will turn into a HK$43 million loss.

Sports minister Kevin Yeung said he very much welcomes the refund arrangement, adding that officials, along with the Consumer Council, worked hard with Tatler to find a solution to the matter.

"I think Tatler's refund decision is a positive response to the people's demands, we feel that it has shown its sincerity, so we very much welcome the decision," Yeung told reporters.

"I know some fans may still have other views on this issue, but I hope everyone can understand that we all have worked very hard to resolve this issue. It's Lunar New Year, we hope everyone has a happy new year."

Earlier on Friday, Inter Miami apologised for Messi and Luis Suarez sitting out the game in Hong Kong, stating once again that the pair were not fit to play.

"We also recognise that the late decision caused frustration among our Hong Kong supporters and the event promoter, Tatler Asia. We do feel it necessary to express that injuries are unfortunately a part of the beautiful game, and our players' health must always come first," the club told Reuters.

Inter Miami said it is eager to return to Hong Kong, as long as fans are open to the idea.