Fan Fury Erupts as Messi’s Kolkata Visit Ends in Chaos and Vandalism

Football fans in Kolkata were left devastated and angry on Saturday. The event featuring global icon Lionel Messi descended into chaos. Supporters hurled bottles and damaged stadium property. This followed a brief and disappointing appearance by the Argentine star.

According to Reuters, Messi spent only about ten minutes on the pitch. He was heavily surrounded by officials and security. Many fans who paid thousands of rupees for tickets could barely see him. The poor management sparked immediate and violent frustration.

Event Mismanagement Sparks Violent Stadium Reaction

Lionel Messi arrived at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan around 11:30 AM. He was accompanied by former teammate Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. The group waved briefly to the packed crowd.

They were quickly encircled by a large group of VIPs and event staff. This wall of people blocked the view for most spectators in the stands. Messi was then escorted from the field before many scheduled dignitaries had even arrived.

Chants of “We want Messi” quickly turned to shouts of anger. Fans began throwing plastic bottles onto the playing surface. They also ripped banners and damaged plastic chairs in the galleries.

Local reports from ANI stated one person was injured in the melee. Police struggled to contain the crowd as some tried to break barricades.

Official Apology and Probe Follow Disastrous Promotion

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a swift public apology. She said she was deeply disturbed by the mismanagement of the high-profile event. Banerjee apologized directly to Lionel Messi and to all the disappointed fans.

She announced a formal inquiry committee to investigate the incident. The committee will be chaired by a retired judge. Its goal is to fix responsibility and prevent future failures.

Fans expressed their bitterness to news crews on site. Many highlighted the high cost of tickets, ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000. They felt cheated after expecting a proper football exhibition or longer interaction.

The Kolkata Messi event has become a case study in promotional failure. The severe fan reaction underscores the risks of poor event planning. Organizers globally will note the intense scrutiny such superstar appearances now face.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How long was Lionel Messi actually at the Kolkata stadium?

Reports indicate Messi was on the pitch for only about 10 minutes. His entire visit to the stadium grounds was also very short, leaving fans who waited for hours deeply disappointed.

Why were the fans so angry?

Fans paid high ticket prices expecting a substantial appearance or performance. Many could not see Messi due to crowds of officials around him, and he left abruptly without engaging with the crowd as anticipated.

Was anyone injured during the chaos?

Yes, according to reports from ANI, at least one person was injured during the vandalism and commotion that followed Messi’s early exit from the event.

What has been the government response?

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a public apology. She also ordered a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the mismanagement and identify those responsible.

How much did tickets for the event cost?

Spectators reported paying between ₹5,000 and ₹12,000 for tickets to the event. The high cost amplified their frustration over the extremely brief and obscured appearance.