Kolkata, India - Lionel Messi's highly anticipated tour of India descended into chaos on Saturday as irate fans rioted at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium following the superstar's brief appearance. The incident occurred during the opening of the "GOAT India Tour 2025," leaving organizers scrambling and prompting apologies from government officials.
Messi's tour was scheduled to span three days, taking him to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The Kolkata event was meant to include a meet-and-greet, the virtual unveiling of a 70-foot statue of Messi, and other events. However, the situation quickly deteriorated when Messi's appearance lasted only 20 minutes, with the football star waving to the crowd while heavily guarded.
Frustration mounted among the thousands of fans, many of whom had traveled long distances and paid hefty sums for tickets, with prices ranging from ₹4,366 to ₹12,000 (approximately $55 to $133 USD). Reports indicate that some fans claimed they couldn't even catch a glimpse of Messi, either in person or on the stadium's big screens. "Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi... Why did they call us then," one fan told ANI, expressing his disappointment.
The discontent soon spiraled into violent protests as fans ripped up seats and threw them onto the pitch, while others breached security and invaded the field. Videos circulating on social media showed chaotic scenes of vandalism and unrest. "Messi left quickly, I think he felt unsafe. I hardly got a glimpse of him,” said Eddie Lal Hmangaihzuala, who traveled nearly 1,500 km to see Messi.
Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, apologized to Messi and ordered an investigation into the incident. "I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium," Banerjee stated on social media. She also pledged to take action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Satadru Dutta, the chief organizer of the event, has been detained by police. Authorities have stated that they are taking the incident seriously and will ensure accountability for the mismanagement. Dutta has reportedly pledged to refund the tickets sold for the event.
Despite the chaotic start, Messi's "GOAT India Tour" is scheduled to continue, with planned events in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The tour includes concerts, youth soccer clinics, a Padel tournament, and charitable initiatives. It remains to be seen how the organizers will address the issues that led to the unrest in Kolkata and ensure the safety and satisfaction of fans in the remaining cities.
