KOLKATA, Dec 13: What was expected to be a historic day for football fans in Kolkata turned chaotic on Saturday after Lionel Messi’s brief appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium was cut short, triggering unrest among disappointed spectators.
Messi’s visit lasted barely 22 minutes, during which thousands of fans failed to get a clear glimpse of the Argentine legend. Frustration quickly mounted inside the packed stadium, leading to a breakdown of order and forcing organisers to abruptly end the programme.
Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who were scheduled to attend the event, were unable to participate as the situation deteriorated.
Moments after Messi emerged from the tunnel, security protocols were breached, with several supporters entering restricted areas. Promoter Shatadru Datta and security personnel rushed Messi out of the venue amid rising tension. Supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress were also seen entering the field, adding to the disorder.
Fans, who had paid between ₹4,500 and ₹10,000 for tickets, vented their anger by throwing bottles, damaging fibreglass seats and vandalising banners and hoardings. Police struggled to control the crowd as some spectators attempted to break barricades and move towards the pitch.
Messi arrived at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan around 11.30 am, accompanied by Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. Though he waved briefly to the crowd, fans complained that VIPs and security personnel blocked their view and that the giant screens did not provide proper coverage.
Chants of “We want Messi” echoed across the stadium as the football icon was escorted out earlier than scheduled. While timely evacuation and deployment of additional security prevented a complete breakdown of law and order, the chaos cast a shadow over the high-profile event meant to celebrate one of football’s greatest stars.
