Fans throw bottles and chairs and vandalise hoardings at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, 13 December 2025. (EPA)
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KOLKATA — Angry fans attending Lionel Messi’s promotional appearance at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium vandalized seating and threw objects toward the pitch after the football star was ushered away early, leaving thousands disappointed.
Supporters who paid up to 12,000 rupees ($133) to see the Argentina and Inter Miami forward said they were unable to properly view Messi, who walked briefly around the pitch but was largely obscured by officials and celebrities. Security escorted him away after about 20 minutes.
As it became clear the appearance had ended, sections of the crowd turned hostile, ripping up seats, hurling plastic chairs and water bottles, and storming parts of the pitch, according to local media reports.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she was “deeply disturbed and shocked” by the incident and announced an inquiry to determine responsibility and prevent a repeat.
Police said the event’s chief organizer had been arrested and that authorities were reviewing options to refund ticket holders.
Messi is in India for his “GOAT” tour, a series of promotional events across several cities. The All India Football Federation said it was not involved in the privately organized event. — Agencies
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