LIonel Messi’s tour of India got off to a controversial start. Hundreds of fans in Kolkata broke seats, fences and even the patience of the organizers during Inter Miami and the world champions’ brief appearance
Messi’s technique of folding his shirt faster than anyone else
The Argentine star arrived at the Salt Lake Colossus, waved and strolled off the pitch. According to local media, they were completed in just 20 minutes. Waves of fans rushed around him, not wanting to miss the “10” seconds, but many could not even see his face. “We paid 12,000 rupees (114 euros) and the only people near Messi were officials and actors… Why did they call us?” an angry fan complained in front of the ANI agency’s cameras.
Videos of the moment aired on local media and social networks showed the crowd spinning out of control, with seats flying, objects thrown onto the field and the track turned into an impromptu protest area. It was a chaotic welcome for the idol, who returned to the same spot where Argentina beat Venezuela 1-0 in a friendly in 2011.
New stops in Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi
Messi will continue his tour of India with stops in Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. In between concerts, paddle tennis, youth clinics and charity events, the Argentine players also virtually inaugurated a 21-metre-tall bronze statue in Kolkata’s honor, the city’s new monument to a modern-day hero. Because despite the turmoil, the Argentine’s dedication to the star remains intact.
“I apologize to Messi. We are investigating what happened.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has issued a public apology to Leo and announced an investigation will be initiated following the serious incident that took place in Kolkata during the Argentine star’s visit to India. There was chaos at Salt Lake Stadium, with some fans tearing seats from the stands and throwing them onto the pitch.
“Very disappointed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed at Salt Lake Stadium today,” Banerjee wrote on social network X on her way to the event. The manager apologized to both Messi and the fans, making clear what happened and promising to take steps to prevent similar scenes from happening again.
He explained that an investigation committee has been established to analyze the facts in detail, clarify responsibility, and propose future solutions. The incident had a strong impact on a country where cricket remains the dominant sport in India, but where soccer arouses great passion in states such as West Bengal, Kerala and Goa.
