Post by : Rameen Ariff

Kolkata witnessed unexpected chaos as thousands of fans attending Lionel Messi’s promotional tour grew angry and stormed the pitch, ripping up seats and throwing objects after their much-anticipated glimpse of the football legend turned frustratingly brief. Messi’s appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium in West Bengal lasted barely twenty minutes, leaving many disappointed despite paying up to 12,000 rupees for tickets.

Fans had eagerly gathered, chanting Messi’s name, waving banners, wearing “I love Messi” headbands, and donning jerseys to catch a glimpse of the Argentina and Inter Miami forward. The event, part of Messi’s “GOAT Tour” across India, was meant to include Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The tour began with the unveiling of a 70-foot statue of Messi in Kolkata, created over 27 days by a team of 45 workers. However, the statue unveiling was held virtually for security reasons, prompting thousands of fans to visit the stadium in hopes of seeing Messi in person.

Once Messi arrived, he walked around the pitch, waving to fans, but was largely obscured by a large entourage of officials and celebrities. Security quickly whisked him away, ending his appearance far sooner than expected. Frustrated by the abrupt conclusion, some fans began vandalizing banners and tents, while others hurled plastic chairs and water bottles onto the field. The chaos highlighted the immense anticipation surrounding Messi’s visit and the deep connection his supporters feel toward the football star.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock at the incident and apologised to Messi and fans. She announced an enquiry into the stadium events, promising to identify responsibility and recommend measures to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

Many fans shared their disappointment, questioning why tickets were sold if the crowd could barely see Messi. One fan lamented that they had paid a significant amount, equivalent to a month’s salary, only to have their view blocked by politicians and celebrities rather than the football star. Another supporter, Hitesh, a 24-year-old corporate lawyer who traveled nearly 1,900 kilometers from Bengaluru, said Messi is an inspiration for him and millions of others who aspire to achieve greatness in football.

Despite the brief appearance, Messi remains deeply admired in India. Fans can engage with the “Hola Messi” fan zone, featuring a life-sized replica of Messi on a throne, displays of his trophies, and recreations of his Miami home with mannequins of the player and his family.

Kolkata, a city passionate about football despite India’s cricket dominance, saw streets lined with fans and crowds gathering outside Messi’s hotel in the early hours, eager for even a fleeting glimpse of the star. The Salt Lake Stadium incident has sparked a broader conversation about crowd management, ticket policies, and security arrangements for celebrity appearances in India.

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