Furious fans in India storm stadium after Messi's appearance ends abruptly

• Angry fans vandalize stadium and throw objects after Messi’s appearance is cut short.
• Supporters paid up to 12,000 rupees but were unable to see the football star clearly.
• West Bengal authorities announce an enquiry and arrest the event’s chief organiser.

Tensions flared at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday as Lionel Messi’s brief appearance sparked anger among thousands of fans, leading to vandalism and the throwing of chairs and bottles.

Thousands of supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (USD 133) for a chance to see the Argentina and Inter Miami forward, many travelling long distances and wearing “I love Messi” headbands. Fans were left frustrated when Messi emerged to walk around the pitch, largely obscured by a group of officials and celebrities, before being escorted away after just 20 minutes.

“Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi… Why did they call us then… We have got a ticket for 12,000 rupees, but we were not even able to see his face,” one fan told Indian news agency ANI. Another told the Press Trust of India that people had spent the equivalent of a month’s salary to attend.

- Official responses and enquiry -

West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock at the incident and apologised to Messi and sports fans. She announced an enquiry to determine responsibility and prevent future occurrences, stating on X: “The [enquiry] committee will conduct a detailed enquiry into the incident, fix responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.”

A police official confirmed the arrest of the event’s “chief organiser” and indicated that authorities are exploring how to refund ticket holders. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) clarified it was not involved in the private event.

- Messi’s tour and fan enthusiasm -

Messi is in India for his “GOAT tour,” a series of promotional events in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. His visit to Kolkata included the unveiling of a 21-meter statue, created over 27 days, and appearances alongside Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul. Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan also met Messi earlier in the day.

The city of Kolkata, known for its passionate football fanbase, had expected a short exhibition game, but the early conclusion of Messi’s appearance left many disappointed and sparked the unrest.