Kolkata witnessed an intense mix of celebration and disorder on Saturday as football icon Lionel Messi appeared at the Salt Lake Stadium during his GOAT Tour India 2025. What was expected to be a historic fan moment quickly spiralled into chaos amid overwhelming crowd pressure.
Messi, the Argentine World Cup winner, was forced to cut short his planned lap of honour after spectators, unable to get a clear view of the superstar, began throwing bottles inside the stadium.
As frustration mounted among fans, several banners and seats were damaged, while loud boos were directed at officials and politicians present at the venue. The scenes highlighted serious security and crowd-management challenges during one of the most anticipated sporting appearances in the city’s recent history.
The situation escalated to the point where organisers curtailed Messi’s movement on the field, prioritising safety amid the frenzy. (Photo: Social media)
The situation escalated to the point where organisers curtailed Messi’s movement on the field, prioritising safety amid the frenzy.
Statue Unveiling Adds to the Spectacle
Earlier in the day, Messi was part of a contrasting moment of admiration when he virtually unveiled a towering 70-foot statue at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town.
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The iron statue, depicting Messi holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, was completed in just 40 days as a tribute to his achievements. West Bengal Minister and Sree Bhumi Sporting Club President Sujit Bose confirmed that Messi had approved the installation.
“We have talked to his manager, and today we will talk to Messi… He gave his consent for the statue and they are also happy,” the TOI quoted Bose as saying, adding that Messi and his team were delighted with the tribute.
The scenes highlighted serious security and crowd-management challenges during one of the most anticipated sporting appearances in the city’s recent history. (screenshot)
Citywide Frenzy Over Messi’s Arrival
Messi’s arrival in Kolkata early Saturday morning drew massive crowds across key locations in the city, with fans eager for even a fleeting glimpse of the football legend. The scenes once again underlined Messi’s immense popularity in India, particularly in West Bengal, where football enjoys deep cultural roots.
This marks Messi’s first visit to India since 2011, when he played a friendly match at the same Salt Lake Stadium. That game saw Argentina defeat Venezuela 1–0, a moment still fondly remembered by Indian football fans.
Fourteen years later, Messi’s return has reignited that nostalgia, triggering elaborate fan-led celebrations across Kolkata.
