Argentina’s legendary footballer and World Cup-winning captain Lionel Messi’s India tour began amid controversy. Messi, who arrived in India on a three-day “GOAT India” tour as a UNICEF brand ambassador, was scheduled to make his first public appearance at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, but fans’ excitement turned into chaos, and the situation spiraled out of control.
Crowds gathered since morning, arrangements failed
Thousands of fans gathered inside and outside the Salt Lake Stadium since early morning to catch a glimpse of Messi. Fans, wearing Argentina jerseys, flags, and posters, chanted incessantly in praise of Messi. The crowd, far larger than anticipated, strained the stadium’s security and crowd management systems. According to eyewitnesses and reports, the lack of clear instructions and adequate arrangements led to increased uneasiness among fans, leading some to attempt to climb the stadium’s barricades.
Excitement turned into chaos, chairs and bottles were thrown.
As the wait grew longer, fans’ anger flared. Some began throwing chairs inside the stadium, and water bottles were also thrown. The situation worsened when news spread that Lionel Messi might return early.
Many fans were upset that despite waiting for hours, they couldn’t even catch a glimpse of the football legend.
Messi left the stadium due to security reasons
Seeing the situation worsen, security agencies had to intervene. Additional security forces were deployed, and as a precautionary measure, Lionel Messi was escorted out of the stadium along with other VVIP guests. According to sources, Messi was at the Salt Lake Stadium for less than 10 minutes. His exit further escalated the anger of disappointed fans, forcing the administration to struggle to bring the situation under control.
Questions raised about organization and management
The incident has raised serious questions about the preparations of the organizing committee and the local administration. Sports enthusiasts and fans say that adequate crowd management and security arrangements were not made for such a large event and for international-level athletes.
‘GOAT India’ tour to continue
However, despite the uproar, Lionel Messi’s ‘GOAT India’ tour is expected to proceed as scheduled. The administration may take extra precautions regarding security and arrangements for upcoming events to prevent a repeat of the Kolkata situation.