Chaos erupts at Kolkata stadium as Lionel Messi cuts visit short

Kolkata, India Spectators clashed with security and stormed the pitch at Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday after football icon Lionel Messi, visiting India on a three-day “GOAT Tour,” left the arena earlier than scheduled, Sport360NG reports.

The 38-year-old Argentina and Inter Miami star arrived in West Bengal early Saturday, greeted by throngs of fans chanting his name. Thousands clad in Messi jerseys and waving Argentine flags filled the stadium, but tight security limited access, leaving many unable to see the football legend up close.

Messi toured the pitch briefly, waved to supporters, and departed before a planned exhibition match, sparking frustration among fans, some of whom paid over $100 for tickets. Angry spectators ripped out stadium seats, threw water bottles, and vandalized banners and tents.

“For me, watching Messi is a dream. But I missed the chance to see him because of poor management,” said local businessman Nabin Chatterjee, 37. Another fan, Ajay Shah, told the Press Trust of India that he had spent a month’s salary on tickets and criticized authorities for mismanagement and distractions.

Before the unrest, Messi had unveiled a 21-meter statue of himself holding the World Cup trophy.

Authorities confirmed that the chief organizer of the event had been arrested, though details were limited. “There is total normalcy now,” said senior state police official Javed Shamim, adding that authorities would explore options for ticket refunds.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her regret over the incident, apologizing to Messi and fans and ordering an official probe.

Messi is set to continue his India tour in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, with a potential meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The football superstar recently won his second consecutive Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player award and led Inter Miami to the MLS title, cementing his status as one of the sport’s greatest players. He is also expected to lead Argentina in defense of their World Cup title next summer in North America.