Chaos erupted at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium in India on December 13. Thousands of fans were left furious and disappointed. This happened after Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated appearance ended abruptly.
Many supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (about $144 USD) to see the Argentine captain. They ripped up plastic seats and hurled bottles. Fans also stormed the pitch. This occurred after the football icon was escorted away. His appearance lasted barely 20 minutes into the event.
Chaos erupted at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium following Lionel Messi’s brief appearance.
Event Details and Fan Outcry
Lionel Messi visited India for his promotional ‘GOAT’ tour. He appeared on the pitch to wave at the crowd. However, a large entourage of officials, celebrities, and security personnel largely obscured him. Tempers flared inside the packed stadium. It became clear that his brief appearance was over. There would be no exhibition match.
Local media reports indicated that many attendees expected more than just a brief walkaround. They believed the 2022 World Cup winner would play a short exhibition game. This was according to AFP.
A fan spoke to the Indian news agency ANI. He voiced the widespread frustration. “Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi,” he stated. “Why did they call us then? We paid 12,000 rupees for a ticket. Yet, we could not even see his face.”
Another supporter told the Press Trust of India about the enormous cost for ordinary fans. “I paid Rs 5,000 for the ticket,” the fan explained. “I came with my son to watch Messi, not politicians.” He added, “Police and military personnel were taking selfies. The management is to blame for this situation.”
Messi’s Tour and Kolkata’s Passion
During his brief visit, Lionel Messi was accompanied by Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez. Fellow Argentina international Rodrigo de Paul was also present. Earlier, Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan met the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Kolkata, West Bengal’s capital, boasts a deep football culture. This is notable as cricket largely dominates India. Huge crowds regularly attend local football derbies. Anticipation for Messi’s visit had reached a fever pitch. Fans travelled nationwide. They chanted his name, wore Argentina jerseys, and sported “I love Messi” headbands.
In the hours leading up to the event, thousands of people lined the streets. They gathered outside Messi’s hotel. Everyone hoped to catch a glimpse of him.
Messi’s India tour had started in Kolkata. It began with the unveiling of a 70-foot statue of the player. A 45-member crew built this statue over 27 days. Lionel Messi appeared virtually at the unveiling. This was due to security concerns.
Official Response and Aftermath
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her deep disturbance and shock. She reacted to the public disorder. Footage showed fans tearing down banners, smashing chairs, and running onto the field.
Following the unrest, CM Banerjee announced an official inquiry. She also apologised to Lionel Messi and sports fans. “The committee will conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident,” she stated on X. “It will fix responsibility. It will also recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.”
A police official confirmed the arrest of the event’s “chief organiser”. AFP reported this. Authorities will also examine how to arrange ticket refunds. The All India Football Federation stated its non-involvement. It confirmed the event was privately organised.
