Anger erupts at Messi’s India visit as fans clash with security and stadium staff
In Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, thousands of fans who paid premium prices for a glimpse of Lionel Messi grew furious when the Argentina star appeared only briefly and was surrounded by a wall of officials and celebrities. The event, part of Messi’s GOAT tour, drew crowds who had spent up to 12,000 rupees (about £100 or $133) for a chance to see him, yet many left disappointed as Messi was whisked away after roughly 20 minutes.
As security moved him off the field, a portion of the audience expressed their frustration by ripping up seats, tossing items toward the pitch, and vandalizing banners and tents. Some attendees even hurled plastic chairs and water bottles in anger. AFP reported that the World Cup champion, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, was expected to participate in a brief exhibition match, a plan that did not come to fruition.
Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal’s chief minister, said she was deeply disturbed and shocked by the disturbance. She announced an inquiry to identify responsible parties and recommend measures to prevent a repeat of the incident.
Outside the stadium, many fans voiced their grievances. One attendee told Indian news agency ANI that they had paid 12,000 rupees for a ticket but did not get a clear view of Messi, while a critic told the Press Trust of India that tickets priced like a month’s salary were wasted on politicians instead of the football star.
Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is renowned for its football fervor, even as cricket dominates much of India’s sports culture. The city regularly hosts large-scale derbies that draw massive crowds.
Beyond the controversy, the Messi visit has spurred a wave of homage. A large statue event in Kolkata kicked off the tour, and fans lined streets and hotels to catch a glimpse of him. A dedicated “Hola Messi” fan zone has sprung up, featuring a life-sized throne statue, trophy displays, and a recreation of the footballer’s Miami home with family mannequins, offering supporters a tangible connection to the global icon.
In announcing the incident’s inquiry, Banerjee apologized to Messi and to sports enthusiasts, promising a thorough review to assign responsibility and implement safeguards for the future. The episode raises questions about crowd control, event management, and the gap between star power and spectator experience in large-scale sporting appearances.
What do you think about such promotional tours? Should organizers prioritize spectacle and celebrity presence, or ensure every ticket holder has a guaranteed view and a safe, respectful environment for everyone?
