Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi, frequently recognized as a footballing master, became controversial after he and his father were convicted of tax evasion. This off-field issue projected a different picture while most supporters applauded his on-field brilliance. They employed offshore businesses between 2007 and 2009 to evade paying taxes on earnings from Messi’s image rights.

It is a startling reminder to many people that even our most cherished idols are not perfect. Should we keep the artist and the work of art separate? While Messi’s football brilliance is unaffected, this chapter offers an engaging starting point for discussing the obligations of worldwide icons.