Messi’s Kolkata GOAT Tour event descends into chaos after early exit, fans erupt in anger

Kolkata, Dec 13: What was billed as a celebratory stop in Lionel Messi’s GOAT Tour in Kolkata spiralled into disorder on Saturday after the Argentine football icon exited the Salt Lake Stadium far earlier than expected, triggering anger among disappointed fans.

Many spectators, who had paid premium prices hoping to see Messi in action, reacted furiously when they realised the star would not participate meaningfully in the programme.

Bottles and chairs were hurled from the stands, while a section of the crowd entered the field and attempted to damage the tent and goalpost, alleging gross mismanagement of the event.

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Police intervened after the situation escalated, using mild force to disperse the crowd and prevent further vandalism. According to officials, the unrest began when fans tried to breach security and storm the ground in protest.

Several attendees expressed outrage, claiming Messi appeared only briefly and was surrounded by politicians and celebrities, leaving ordinary ticket-holders unable to get a clear view.

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One fan said the event felt like a “scam” and demanded a refund, while another alleged he paid ₹12,000 for a ticket but could not even see Messi’s face.

Others complained that the footballer merely waved before leaving, without taking a kick or interacting with the crowd.

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As criticism mounted, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued an apology, calling the episode deeply distressing. In a post on X, she said she was shocked by the mismanagement at the stadium and apologised both to Lionel Messi and to football lovers who had gathered in large numbers to witness the event.

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The chaotic scenes have cast a shadow over what was meant to be a landmark football spectacle in a city known for its deep passion for the sport.