Regional Council Chairman Lam Wai-keung flew to the Atlanta Olympics yesterday to watch the territory's athletes, proudly photographed at Kai Tak wearing a jacket by Adidas, the company 'sponsoring' his trip.
Unfortunately, Adidas was surprised to discover that it had been so generous.
As Regional Council public relations staff sent out photographs of the Adidas-branded Mr Lam in the departure hall, Adidas was wondering whether he had misinterpreted a letter sent to him offering to make 'arrangements' for his trip.
Mr Lam sought and received permission for his trip to be sponsored from the Regional Council. A spokesman said yesterday 'it's free of charge' and Regional Council electors need not pay a cent for Mr Lam's week watching the team thanks to Adidas' generosity.
But Adidas marketing executive Corrinne Cheung said the letter offering to make arrangements for the trip meant the firm would only book hotels and plane tickets - not pay for them.
'It was stated clearly that we are not paying all expenses,' she said.
Mr Lam, mid-flight yesterday, was not available for comment.