Kolkata, India – A recent visit by football superstar Lionel Messi to Kolkata has sparked controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia, who has condemned the pervasive "VIP culture" that overshadowed the event. The chaotic scenes at the Salt Lake Stadium on December 13, 2025, where overcrowding and mismanagement marred Messi's appearance, have ignited a debate about the prioritization of genuine sports fans versus VIP attendees.
Messi's appearance in Kolkata, part of the GOAT India Tour 2025, was highly anticipated, with over 80,000 fans flocking to the stadium for a glimpse of the Argentinian icon. However, the event quickly descended into disarray as scores of VIPs, including politicians, celebrities, and officials, swarmed the pitch, obstructing the view for paying spectators and disrupting the planned schedule. Reports indicate that Messi himself became "visibly uncomfortable" due to the encroaching crowd and was rushed out of the venue after just 20 minutes, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, amidst rising safety concerns.
The premature departure triggered outrage among fans, many of whom had paid high prices for tickets, with some costing over 100 dollars, only to be denied a proper view of their idol. Frustration boiled over as spectators vandalized the stadium, throwing bottles and attempting to break through gates. The incident has been widely criticized as a public relations disaster, overshadowing the intended celebration of football.
Bhaichung Bhutia, former captain of the Indian national football team, has been vocal in his condemnation of the events, squarely blaming the "VIP culture" for the fiasco. Speaking to news agency ANI, Bhutia lamented that genuine fans were unable to see Messi due to the overwhelming presence of "unwanted VIPs". He acknowledged the organizers' efforts but noted that the situation spiraled out of control, with too many individuals who "were not supposed to be there" crowding the venue. Bhutia emphasized Messi's immense popularity in Kolkata and across India, stressing the need to prevent such incidents in the future. "Knowing that Messi is worshipped in Kolkata and in India, when they get disappointed paying such a high price and coming from such faraway places, I think it's very disappointing," Bhutia stated. He urged that future events be better organized and that the presence of "unwanted VIPs surrounding should be avoided".
The aftermath of the event has seen significant repercussions. The lead organizer, Satadru Dutta, has been arrested, and two police cases have been filed. West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas, who was seen photographed with Messi, has resigned from his post pending investigation, following accusations of using his influence to grant access to relatives and acquaintances. A special investigation team (SIT) is currently probing the incident, with authorities investigating alleged financial irregularities and scrutinizing the ticketing process. Initial reports suggest that organizer Satadru Dutta told investigators that Messi was unhappy with the physical contact during his appearance.
The incident has prompted widespread reflection on the need to prioritize sports and its fans. Bhutia's criticism underscores a growing sentiment that sporting events should focus on the enjoyment and accessibility of the general public, rather than being dominated by VIP culture and political influence.
