Lionel Messi’s long-awaited tour of India faced a tumultuous start as fans expressed their frustration at Salt Lake Stadium over a chaotic event. Many ticket holders, who waited for extended periods, were dismayed to find themselves unable to see the football icon, either in person or on the stadium’s large screens.
Reports indicated that the disappointment escalated into unrest, with some fans throwing bottles and attempting to vandalize the venue. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee responded to the situation, voicing her concern in a social media post where she also apologized to Messi and the fans who felt let down after purchasing tickets. “I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium,” she stated, announcing plans to form a committee to investigate the situation, assign accountability, and devise measures to prevent future incidents.
The disturbances occurred as aggrieved supporters, many wearing Argentina jerseys, broke past security barriers and attempted to damage the field before security personnel intervened. Notably, Messi had already left the venue before the unrest unfolded.
Messi’s “GOAT India Tour” was intended to take him from Kolkata to Hyderabad and Mumbai, ultimately culminating in New Delhi on Monday. Earlier in the day, the Argentine superstar, alongside teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, had participated in the remote unveiling of a 21-meter statue of himself in Kolkata, marking a bright spot during a challenging day.
Despite the rocky beginning, there remains an optimistic outlook for the upcoming events of Messi’s tour. Fans are hopeful that the remaining days will be better coordinated, allowing them to celebrate their idol in a vibrant and festive atmosphere.