Messi's GOAT Tour: Chaos & Shock in India 🤯⚽️

World News

Messi’s Kolkata Chaos: Fan Fury Erupts
Angry spectators overwhelmed stadium security, leading to a chaotic breach of barriers and a full-scale invasion of the pitch during Lionel Messi’s surprise visit to Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. The 38-year-old superstar, arriving on Saturday morning as part of his “Greatest of All Time” tour, was initially greeted by a massive crowd of supporters chanting his name. Thousands wearing Messi jerseys and displaying Argentina’s flag had packed the stadium hours later, but stringent security measures proved insufficient to satisfy the fervent fans’ desire for closer access.

Messi’s Premature Exit Sparks Outrage
Messi circulated around the pitch, waving to the adoring crowd before abruptly departing the stadium, further fueling the escalating frustration. Growing discontent among the spectators, many of whom had invested over $100 for tickets, manifested in the destructive act of smashing stadium seats and throwing water bottles onto the field. Numerous individuals also stormed the pitch, vandalizing banners and tents, demonstrating the peak of the fan’s unrest.

A Statue Unveiled, Then a Disruption
Prior to the ensuing disruption, Messi had already unveiled a 21-meter (70ft) statue depicting him holding the World Cup, a gesture of appreciation for the passionate fan base. He was scheduled to participate in a short exhibition match at the stadium, a highlight of the tour’s itinerary.

Investigation Launched Amidst Refund Demands
A senior police official, Javed Shamim, stated that the event’s “chief organiser” had been arrested, though no further details were provided. He assured reporters that “total normality” had been restored, and that authorities would investigate how refunds could be issued to ticket holders, acknowledging the financial losses suffered by many supporters.

Apologies and Accountability from Authorities
In a post on X, the spokesperson apologized to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident. She subsequently announced an investigation into the matter, suggesting accountability for the mismanagement that led to the disruption.

AIFF Denies Involvement in the Event
The All India Football Federation stated definitively that it had no involvement in the “organisation, planning, or execution” of the “private event.” “Furthermore,” the statement continued, “the details of the event were neither communicated to the AIFF, nor was any clearance sought from the Federation,” highlighting the lack of official coordination.

Messi's Tour Continues Despite Kolkata Fallout
Lionel Messi was met by thousands of adoring fans in Hyderabad, where he played a match for his supporters on Saturday. He arrived in Mumbai on Sunday, and his tour will conclude in New Delhi on Monday, with a possible meeting scheduled with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, showing his continued commitment to connecting with his global fanbase.