Global Shame: Kolkata’s Messi Event Descends into ‘Insane Chaos’ as CM Mamata Banerjee Apologises
Bottles and Chairs Thrown at Salt Lake Stadium After Fans Fail to See Star; Chief Minister Orders High-Level Probe, Acknowledges Blow to India’s Image
Vandalism and Fury Mar Messi’s Kolkata Appearance
The highly anticipated start of football legend Lionel Messi‘s ‘GOAT India Tour 2025’ was tragically marred by scenes of “absolute chaos” at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata. The celebratory mood quickly turned hostile as thousands of fans, who had paid premium prices for tickets, erupted in anger over severe mismanagement and the Argentine star’s extremely brief, blink-and-miss appearance of under 25 minutes.
Eyewitnesses and viral videos confirmed the shocking scenes of disorder, showing spectators throwing water bottles and plastic chairs onto the pitch and attempting to breach security barricades. Fans expressed intense frustration, stating that their view of the world icon was completely obstructed by a large, unauthorized contingent of politicians and VIPs, effectively turning the ticketed event into an “elite showcase.” The escalating vandalism and security concerns forced organizers to rapidly escort Messi out of the venue, cutting short the entire program.
Chief Minister Issues Public Apology and Orders Probe
Acknowledging the severe damage the incident caused to the state’s and India’s reputation as a host of international events, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a swift and sincere public apology. In an official statement, the Chief Minister expressed her distress: “I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium.”
She extended her regret, stating, “I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident.” To ensure accountability, the Chief Minister immediately announced the constitution of a high-level inquiry committee, chaired by retired Justice Ashim Kumar Ray, tasked with conducting a detailed probe, fixing responsibility for the lapses, and recommending measures to prevent such embarrassments in the future. The police have already arrested the main event organiser and initiated procedures to ensure ticket refunds are processed.
International Image Suffers Major Blow
The chaotic incident has drawn scathing criticism from political figures and citizens alike, with many calling it an international disgrace. The failure of the state administration and organizers to manage a high-profile visit by one of the world’s most recognizable athletes has been widely viewed as a major setback for India’s soft power and its image as a sophisticated global event host. While Kolkata has a historical passion for football, the episode has left thousands of loyal fans disappointed and prompted sharp warnings for authorities in Hyderabad, the next stop on Messi’s tour, to implement unprecedented security and crowd control measures.