“West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologised and ordered an inquiry.”
Lionel Messi’s visit to Kolkata on 13 December 2025, as part of his GOAT India Tour, turned chaotic. Fans at the Vivekananda Yuvabharati Salt Lake Stadium became frustrated when Messi’s appearance was brief and many could not see him properly.
Angry spectators threw bottles and chairs, vandalised stadium property, and tried to breach barriers. Many expressed disappointment, as they had paid high ticket prices but felt let down by the event management.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologised for the situation and ordered an inquiry into the mismanagement. Authorities are investigating the crowd control issues to prevent similar problems at the remaining tour stops in India.
The incident overshadowed what was meant to be a historic fan moment and highlighted the need for better planning in handling large crowds for celebrity events.