Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated GOAT Tour of India erupted into chaos on Saturday when thousands of fans at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium rioted after a poorly managed appearance left many unable to see the Argentina and Inter Miami superstar.
What was meant to be a celebratory moment quickly deteriorated into scenes of anger and violence, with supporters tearing up seats and hurling objects onto the pitch.
Messi arrived at the venue as part of a three-day tour including Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi – amid huge crowds of supporters who had queued since early morning.
He, along with teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, was greeted by cheers before being surrounded by VIPs and officials, which obstructed views for ordinary ticket-holding fans.
According to Sky News, the situation rapidly escalated as frustrated spectators, many of whom had paid between Rs 5,000 and Rs 12,000 (around £45–£110) for tickets, realised they could barely see Messi.
Security quickly escorted the football icon off the pitch after a brief 20-minute stay, but the decision ignited fury among the crowd.
Before long, attendees were ripping out chairs, throwing bottles and breaking through barricades to invade the field.
Local police detained the event’s chief organiser, Satadru Dutta, as part of an ongoing investigation into the mismanagement.
West Bengal’s authorities also froze transfers of ticket revenues and pushed for refunds to affected spectators, acknowledging the intense backlash and financial losses endured by many.
Violence and vandalism disrupts Messi’s tour of India
Law enforcement and local officials condemned the unrest that followed Messi’s early departure.
According to Reuters, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a public apology to Messi and fans, admitting to being “deeply disturbed” by the incidents and ordering a detailed inquiry to prevent similar chaos in future.
Authorities have begun identifying individuals responsible for extensive vandalism, which saw stadium infrastructure damaged and public facilities looted. Initial estimates suggest losses of millions of rupees in equipment destruction and property damage.
Senior police officials insisted they will hold organisers accountable, while the All India Football Federation expressed concern, stressing that it was not involved in the privately organised event.
The dramatic scenes in Kolkata have drawn criticism from political figures as well. Opposition leaders called for a court-monitored probe, accusing state authorities of corruption and mismanagement that tarnished the city’s sporting reputation.
Messi tour continues amid tighter security
Despite the turmoil, Messi honoured commitments in subsequent cities. Delhi authorities ramped up security, deploying thousands of personnel for his next scheduled appearance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, underscoring the lessons learned from Kolkata’s chaos.
While crowd troubles marred the opening stop, events in Hyderabad and Mumbai reportedly proceeded with improved organisation and far less unrest, highlighting the stark contrast in management across different venues.
FGG Says
The scenes in Kolkata should be a wake-up call for organisers and authorities worldwide. Fans did not riot because of Messi, they rioted because basic planning and respect for paying spectators were thrown aside.
Charging high prices for a short, obstructed glimpse of a global icon is disrespectful at best and an invitation to disorder at worst. If football’s biggest stars are to be showcased in future, hosts must prioritise crowd experience, safety and transparency. Otherwise, passion will continue to spill over into chaos.