KOLKATA: The scenes of chaos unfolded at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata after frustrated spectators broke through barricades and stormed the pitch during an appearance by football icon Lionel Messi.
In this regard, Messi, 38, arrived in the eastern state of West Bengal tight security and an enthusiastic reception from fans chanting his name. The visit formed part of the so-called “GOAT Tour,” drawing thousands of supporters eager to see the Argentine World Cup winner in person.
In this sense, large crowds filled Salt Lake Stadium, many wearing Argentina jerseys and waving national flags.
However, heavy security arrangements around the footballer prevented most fans from getting a close view. Messi briefly walked around the pitch, waving to the crowd, before leaving the stadium earlier than expected.
Furthermore, the abrupt departure sparked anger among sections of the crowd, particularly those who had paid premium prices for tickets. Some spectators tore out stadium seats, hurled water bottles onto the track, and damaged banners and tents.
“For me, watching Messi is a dream,” said Nabin Chatterjee, a 37-year-old businessman. “But due to mismanagement, I could not even get a glimpse of him.”
Messi unveiled a 21-metre statue depicting him lifting the FIFA World Cup, an event that had drawn significant public attention. He had also been expected to participate in a brief exhibition game, which did not take place.
In such a scenario, several fans expressed frustration over what they described as poor crowd control and planning. Ajay Shah, who attended the event with his son, said many people had spent substantial sums to attend.
“We came to see Messi, not officials and politicians. The management failed the fans,” he said.
Messi is scheduled to continue his India tour with stops in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, where he may meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Inter Miami star recently won his second consecutive MLS Most Valuable Player award and is set to lead Argentina’s World Cup title defence next year.
