A Dream Visit Turns Sour for Fans
What was meant to be a historic celebration of football legend Lionel Messi in India quickly descended into disorder after thousands of fans left deeply disappointed at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium.
Supporters, many of whom paid up to 12,000 rupees, had gathered hoping to see the Argentine icon up close. Instead, Messi’s brief appearance — lasting roughly 20 minutes — ended abruptly, sparking anger among sections of the crowd.
Fans React as Messi Is Escorted Away Early
Messi walked around the pitch waving to spectators but remained largely blocked from view by politicians, celebrities, and security personnel. When he was escorted off the field earlier than expected, frustration boiled over.
Some fans reportedly ripped stadium seats, stormed parts of the pitch, and threw plastic chairs and bottles toward the field, forcing authorities to intervene.
Government Apology and Official Inquiry
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described the incident as “deeply disturbing” and issued a public apology to Messi and football fans worldwide.
She announced the formation of an investigation committee tasked with identifying those responsible and proposing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Police later confirmed that the chief organiser of the event was arrested, and officials said options for ticket refunds are being explored.
Messi’s Team Responds
A spokesperson for Messi stated that the footballer honoured the time commitment agreed upon in advance. Responsibility for crowd management and event execution, they added, rested entirely with the organisers.
India’s football governing body, the All India Football Federation (AIFF), clarified that it had no involvement, noting the event was privately organised.
High Expectations, Deep Disappointment
Many fans said they had expected more — including a short exhibition match, as widely rumoured before the event.
“I paid nearly a month’s salary to see Messi,” one supporter told local media. “We came to watch football, not politicians.”
Another fan complained that security forces and officials were taking selfies while paying fans were left unable to even see Messi’s face.
India’s Passion for Football on Display
Despite being a cricket-dominated nation, Kolkata has one of Asia’s most passionate football cultures. Thousands lined streets and hotels overnight hoping for a glimpse of Messi, who is in India as part of his GOAT Tour, with stops planned in several major cities.
Earlier, a 70-foot statue of Messi was unveiled in the city — though he appeared virtually due to security concerns.
A Lesson for Future Global Sports Events
The incident highlights the risks of poor event planning, especially when global icons meet massive fan expectations. While Messi departed unharmed, the backlash has raised serious questions about crowd control, transparency, and respect for fans.