Lionel Messi’s much-awaited visit to India was meant to be a grand celebration for football fans. However, the excitement quickly turned into disappointment and anger in Kolkata, making the incident widely known as Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos after poor event management led to unrest inside the stadium.
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Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos Begins in Kolkata
The Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos started when the Argentina and Inter Miami superstar arrived in Kolkata on Saturday as part of his special “GOAT Tour.” Thousands of fans welcomed the 38-year-old football icon at the airport, chanting his name and waving Argentina flags. The city was buzzing with excitement as supporters hoped to see Messi closely and possibly watch him play.
Later that day, Salt Lake Stadium was packed with fans wearing Messi jerseys. Many spectators had paid more than $100 for tickets, expecting a memorable experience. However, strict security arrangements around Messi made it hard for fans to even catch a glimpse of him. This added to the frustration and confusion inside the stadium.
Messi briefly walked around the pitch, waved at the crowd, and then left the stadium much earlier than expected. This unexpected exit became a key moment in the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos. Fans who waited for hours felt cheated, especially since Messi was also expected to play a short exhibition match.
Before leaving, Messi unveiled a huge 21-metre statue showing him holding the FIFA World Cup trophy. While the statue reveal was meant to be the highlight of the evening, it failed to calm the angry crowd once it became clear that Messi would not stay longer.
Violence, Arrests, and Reactions to Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos
As disappointment grew, the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos escalated into violence. Angry spectators broke barricades and stormed the pitch. Several fans ripped out stadium seats, damaged banners and tents, and threw water bottles onto the track. Photos later showed broken chairs scattered across the stadium, reflecting the scale of the damage.
Security personnel and police rushed in to control the situation. Senior West Bengal police official Javed Shamim confirmed that the chief organiser of the event had been arrested. He said the situation was eventually brought under control and claimed there was “total normality” later. Authorities also stated that they would examine how ticket refunds could be arranged for disappointed fans affected by the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed strong concern over the incident. She said she was “disturbed” and “shocked” by the mismanagement of the event. In a public statement, she apologised to Lionel Messi and football lovers across India and ordered an investigation into the matter. Her response further highlighted the seriousness of the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) also issued a statement distancing itself from the controversy. The federation clarified that it had no role in the organisation, planning, or execution of the event. According to the AIFF, it was a private programme, and no permission or details were shared with them, adding another layer to the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos.
Despite the problems in Kolkata, Messi’s tour continued. He was warmly welcomed in Hyderabad, where he appeared in front of fans and played without any major issues. He later travelled to Mumbai on Sunday and is set to conclude his visit in New Delhi on Monday. His India trip may also include a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offering a positive note amid the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos.
Messi’s visit comes during a successful phase of his career. He recently won his second straight MLS Most Valuable Player award after guiding Inter Miami to the league title. He is also preparing to lead Argentina in their World Cup title defence later this year.
While Messi’s presence thrilled millions, the events in Kolkata showed how poor planning can quickly turn celebration into controversy, leaving the Messi 3 Day India Tour Chaos as a major talking point for fans and authorities alike.
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source: Aljazera
