Kolkata, India – Lionel Messi's highly anticipated "GOAT India Tour 2025" began in Kolkata on December 13 with scenes of chaos and stadium damage, leaving many fans disappointed and angry. The Salt Lake Stadium, also known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, witnessed vandalism as spectators tore up seats and threw them onto the pitch after Messi’s brief appearance.
The three-day tour, encompassing Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, promised a unique opportunity for Indian fans to witness the legendary footballer in person. However, the Kolkata leg of the tour was marred by what many attendees described as severe mismanagement. Thousands of fans, some of whom paid hefty sums for tickets ranging from ₹3,500 (approximately $39) to ₹12,000 (approximately $130 or more), were left disgruntled by Messi's fleeting 20-minute visit.
Reports indicate that Messi's time on the field was largely occupied by photo opportunities with local politicians, celebrities, and security personnel, obstructing the view for the majority of ticket-holders in the stands. Witnesses said Messi appeared uncomfortable amidst the chaotic environment, prompting his security team to escort him away early due to safety concerns.
The abrupt departure triggered a wave of anger among the spectators. Videos circulating on social media captured fans ripping up stadium seats and throwing them onto the field. Some individuals breached security fences and stormed the pitch, vandalizing banners and tents.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologized for the "mismanagement" of the event. She announced the formation of a committee to investigate the incident, determine responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The event's chief organizer, Satadru Dutta, has been detained by the police. Authorities have initiated investigations, adding vandalism clauses under the West Bengal Maintenance of Public Property Act and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) distanced itself from the event, stating that it was a private event organized by a PR agency and that the AIFF was not involved in the organization, planning, or execution.
A three-member inquiry committee, led by retired Calcutta High Court judge Justice Ashim Kumar Ray, inspected the stadium to assess the damage. The team examined broken plastic chairs, twisted metal barricades, and littered galleries. West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose also visited the stadium and described the incident as a "dark day" for sports-loving people of Kolkata.
Despite the chaotic start, Messi continued with the tour, arriving in Mumbai on December 14. The Mumbai leg included a padel exhibition at the Cricket Club of India and a seven-a-side exhibition match at Wankhede Stadium. The tour is scheduled to conclude in New Delhi after a stop in Hyderabad.
