Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated GOAT India Tour commenced in Kolkata today, but the event at Salt Lake Stadium descended into chaos as frustrated fans vandalized the venue and hurled bottles from the stands. The incident stemmed from allegations that heavy security measures obstructed views of the Argentine football legend, despite fans paying premium prices for tickets.
Messi came for 5 minutes and went back People turning violent in Salt Lake stadium Throwing bottles,belt, chairs and breaking hoarding.
Messi arrived at the stadium around 11:30 AM for a scheduled appearance, accompanied by a substantial security detail. He addressed the crowd before departing, prompting outrage among attendees who claimed the security cordon blocked their sightlines. In response, some fans attempted to breach gates to get closer to Messi, leading to widespread disorder. Reports indicate that the unrest escalated into vandalism, with bottles being thrown and damage inflicted on stadium property.
Kolkata police have arrested many of the vandalizers and investigation is undergoing.
The tour, which features Messi’s long-time teammate Luis Suárez and fellow Argentina star Rodrigo De Paul, combines public engagements, cultural activities, and celebrity football exhibitions. Kolkata marked the inaugural stop, where Messi also virtually unveiled a 70-foot iron statue dedicated to him at the Sreebhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town. Earlier in the day, he met Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan and his son Abram in a more controlled setting.
Event organizers have yet to release an official statement on the vandalism, but eyewitness accounts describe a “frenzy atmosphere” that quickly turned volatile. Fans expressed disappointment online, with one viral post labeling it an “absolutely terrible event.” Authorities are investigating the disturbances to prevent similar issues as the tour proceeds to its conclusion in New Delhi on December 15.
Star footballer Lionel Messi has left the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Select tour events, including potential live streams, are available for viewing in India, though details on affected Kolkata sessions remain unclear amid the fallout.
Original article
Comments