Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated visit to India as part of his “GOAT Tour” took a dramatic turn in Kolkata after thousands of fans were left frustrated by his brief and abrupt appearance at a packed stadium, MySportDab FReports.
The Argentine superstar arrived in India for a series of promotional events scheduled across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi. His tour began in Kolkata with the unveiling of a towering 70-foot statue in his honour, assembled over 27 days by a 45-member team.
Due to security concerns, Messi appeared virtually during the unveiling, disappointing fans who had hoped to see him in person.
Despite the limitations, thousands of supporters flooded Salt Lake Stadium, chanting his name, wearing Argentina jerseys and “I love Messi” headbands.
Messi briefly walked around the stadium waving to fans, accompanied by Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez and Argentina midfielder Rodrigo de Paul.
However, the event ended prematurely on Saturday, triggering scenes of chaos. Angry fans stormed the pitch, vandalised banners and tents, and threw plastic chairs and water bottles.
Many had expected the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to take part in a short exhibition match, an expectation that went unfulfilled.
Several supporters expressed outrage, saying they paid between ₹5,000 and ₹12,000, in some cases equivalent to a month’s salary, only to catch a fleeting glimpse of the football icon.
Fans also criticised organisers, claiming politicians and security personnel had closer access to Messi than ticket holders.
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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced an official enquiry into the incident and apologised to Messi and football fans. Police later confirmed the arrest of the event’s chief organiser, while authorities also began exploring possible ticket refunds.
The All India Football Federation clarified it had no involvement, describing the event as private.
Despite the controversy, Messi’s popularity in India remains immense. Fans gathered outside his hotel overnight, while others visited fan zones celebrating his career — a testament to the enduring impact of one of football’s greatest icons.
