Snowstorm delays Lionel Messi's Inter Miami Champions Cup debut

Lionel Messi's match for Inter Miami in the Champions Cup against Sporting Kansas City has been postponed due to severe weather conditions, including significant snowfall, as announced by the North American soccer organization CONCACAF on Monday.

Initially set for Tuesday, this match would have marked Javier Mascherano's debut as coach in the continental tournament; however, it is now rescheduled for Wednesday.

The United States National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the area, which encompasses parts of east-central and northeastern Kansas, as well as central and west-central Missouri.

"The decision to postpone the match at Children's Mercy Park was made with the safety of the players and fans as a priority and in consultation with the two clubs involved and local authorities," CONCACAF said in a statement.

The governing body also noted that the postponement was influenced by the potential for snow accumulation on the playing surface.

The return leg is set for February 25th at Miami's Chase Stadium, with the victors moving on to compete against Jamaica's Cavalier in the round of 16.

The Champions Cup, previously referred to as the Champions League, is an annual international club competition organized by CONCACAF, serving as its premier tournament for clubs from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.