Messi’s Kolkata Event Erupts in Chaos, Forcing Early Exit and Political Apology

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi cut short his Kolkata appearance on December 13. The event at Salt Lake Stadium descended into chaos and anger. Disappointed fans threw objects onto the pitch in protest.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee publicly apologized for the severe mismanagement. She announced a high-level inquiry into the incident. The disorder has sparked a political controversy and international embarrassment.

Political Fallout and Inquiry After Stadium Chaos

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock on social media. She apologized directly to Lionel Messi and all the fans present. According to Reuters, she stated she was “deeply disturbed” by the scene.

She has formed a committee to investigate the failure. It will be led by a retired judge. The goal is to fix responsibility and prevent future incidents.

The opposition BJP was swift to criticize. A national spokesperson called it a “total embarrassment on an international stage.” He accused the state government of having “zero planning” for the major event.

Fan Fury Over Failed Promises and High Ticket Prices

Fans had paid significant sums for tickets, reportedly between ₹5,000 and ₹12,000. They expected a proper view of the football icon. Instead, many could not see him at all.

Eyewitnesses and agency reports describe a scene of growing frustration. Messi, accompanied by Luis Suárez, only briefly waved to the crowd. He was reportedly surrounded by VIPs and security, blocking the view for ordinary ticket holders.

His departure after just 15 minutes triggered the furious response. Spectators hurled bottles, bottles, and damaged stadium property. Police struggled to control the crowd as some tried to break onto the field.

The chaotic cancellation of Messi’s Kolkata showcase highlights critical event management failures. It has left thousands of fans disappointed and raised serious questions about planning for major international visits in India.

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Why did fans get angry at the Messi event in Kolkata?

Fans were angry because they paid high ticket prices but could barely see Messi. He was on the field for only about 15 minutes and was surrounded by officials, blocking the view for most spectators.

What did Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee say about the incident?

Mamata Banerjee said she was “shocked” by the mismanagement. She issued a public apology to Lionel Messi and his fans. She also announced a high-level inquiry committee to investigate.

Was anyone injured during the stadium chaos?

Yes, at least one person was injured amid the chaos. Reports from agencies indicate scenes of objects being thrown and attempts to breach barricades, leading to the injury.

How did the political opposition react to the event?

The BJP heavily criticized the state government’s handling. A spokesperson called it an international embarrassment and blamed the ruling party for a complete lack of planning and organization.

Who was with Lionel Messi during the Kolkata appearance?

Messi was accompanied by his former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez and Argentine international Rodrigo De Paul. They appeared together briefly on the Salt Lake Stadium pitch.