Messi Tour Turns Sour as Fan Unrest Erupts in Kolkata

What was meant to be a celebratory stop on Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated “GOAT Tour” descended into chaos on Saturday, as frustrated fans clashed with security at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium following the football icon’s brief and limited appearance.

Thousands of supporters, some of whom paid up to 12,000 Indian rupees (BD 50) for tickets, packed the stadium hoping to catch a glimpse of the Argentine star. Messi, currently with Inter Miami, was greeted by loud chants and applause but was largely shielded from public view by officials and invited guests as he walked around the pitch. Discontent quickly grew when he was escorted out of the stadium after roughly 20 minutes, far earlier than many had expected.

Reports indicated that Messi was anticipated to take part in a short exhibition segment, adding to the disappointment felt by fans when his appearance was abruptly cut short.

As tensions escalated, sections of the crowd turned violent, ripping out stadium seats, throwing objects onto the pitch and storming restricted areas. Several banners and temporary structures were damaged during the unrest.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she was “deeply disturbed and shocked” by the incident. In a public statement, she announced a formal enquiry, apologised to Messi and sports fans, and pledged a thorough investigation to determine responsibility and ensure such incidents do not recur.

Despite the disorder, the episode underscored the extraordinary popularity of Messi in India. His tour began in Kolkata with the virtual unveiling of a towering 70-foot statue, an event watched by thousands after security concerns prevented stadium access. Fans also lined the streets near his hotel in the early hours, while the city hosted a dedicated “Hola Messi” fan zone.

Messi’s India itinerary includes upcoming stops in Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.

The incident serves as both a testament to Messi’s global appeal and a cautionary reminder of the challenges involved in managing large-scale sporting events driven by intense fan passion.