Messi's Brief Visit to Kolkata Sparks Chaos Among Fans
December 13, 2025328 VistasTiempo de lectura: 2 minutos
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Kolkata, India, experienced chaotic scenes following the visit of Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi, who is on a rare promotional tour in India that will last until Monday. Messi, 38, arrived on Saturday morning in West Bengal, where he was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd chanting his name, highlighting his immense popularity in a country where soccer is not the primary sport.
Strict Security Measures Frustrate Fans
Hours after his arrival, thousands of fans donned in Messi jerseys gathered at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. However, stringent security protocols prevented most from getting a close view of the Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star, leading to widespread frustration and anger among the attendees.
Brief Appearance and Early Departure
Local media reported that Messi made a brief appearance on the field to greet fans before leaving immediately, despite an announced schedule that included a longer stay, which further fueled discontent among those present.
Vandalism and Stadium Disturbances
Fan anger erupted, particularly as many had paid over $100 to attend the event, a significant sum for some. A group of disgruntled fans broke seats and threw them onto the field, in addition to tossing water bottles and storming the stadium, prompting urgent security intervention.
Voices of Discontent from the Stands
Businessman Nabin Chatterjee, 37, told AFP, "Seeing Messi was a dream, but I didn’t get the chance due to poor organization at the stadium." Similarly, Ajay Shah expressed his frustration to Indian news agency PTI, stating, "I came with my son to see Messi, not politicians," criticizing the inability to view the Inter Miami star while police and soldiers took selfies with him.
Authorities Acknowledge Poor Organization
Many fans blamed the event's organization for the chaos, a sentiment echoed by local authorities. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her "surprise" at the disorganization and offered an official apology via social media.
Official Apology and Investigation Launched
Banerjee wrote, "I sincerely apologize to Lionel Messi and all fans and sports followers for this unfortunate incident," announcing an investigation to clarify the events and hold those responsible accountable.
Massive Statue Unveiled and Tour Continues
Prior to Messi’s arrival at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata unveiled a massive 21-meter statue of the Argentine star holding the World Cup. Messi is expected to continue his tour in the cities of Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi in the coming days.
Strict Security Measures Frustrate Fans
Hours after his arrival, thousands of fans donned in Messi jerseys gathered at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. However, stringent security protocols prevented most from getting a close view of the Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star, leading to widespread frustration and anger among the attendees.
Brief Appearance and Early Departure
Local media reported that Messi made a brief appearance on the field to greet fans before leaving immediately, despite an announced schedule that included a longer stay, which further fueled discontent among those present.
Vandalism and Stadium Disturbances
Fan anger erupted, particularly as many had paid over $100 to attend the event, a significant sum for some. A group of disgruntled fans broke seats and threw them onto the field, in addition to tossing water bottles and storming the stadium, prompting urgent security intervention.
Voices of Discontent from the Stands
Businessman Nabin Chatterjee, 37, told AFP, "Seeing Messi was a dream, but I didn’t get the chance due to poor organization at the stadium." Similarly, Ajay Shah expressed his frustration to Indian news agency PTI, stating, "I came with my son to see Messi, not politicians," criticizing the inability to view the Inter Miami star while police and soldiers took selfies with him.
Authorities Acknowledge Poor Organization
Many fans blamed the event's organization for the chaos, a sentiment echoed by local authorities. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her "surprise" at the disorganization and offered an official apology via social media.
Official Apology and Investigation Launched
Banerjee wrote, "I sincerely apologize to Lionel Messi and all fans and sports followers for this unfortunate incident," announcing an investigation to clarify the events and hold those responsible accountable.
Massive Statue Unveiled and Tour Continues
Prior to Messi’s arrival at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata unveiled a massive 21-meter statue of the Argentine star holding the World Cup. Messi is expected to continue his tour in the cities of Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi in the coming days.
