The Kolkata leg of Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour 2025 on December 13 descended into chaos at Salt Lake Stadium, where tens of thousands of ticket-holding fans struggled to spot the Argentine icon amid a dense swarm of dignitaries, politicians, celebrities, and security personnel. What was billed as a celebratory appearance lasting hours turned into a 20-minute fleeting visit, leaving spectators frustrated and prompting vandalism as bottles, chairs, and banners were hurled in protest.

Viral photographs and videos captured the core issue: Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, was completely obscured by the entourage during his lap of honor. Fans who paid between ₹4,000 and ₹25,000 for tickets voiced outrage online, with one widely shared image challenging viewers to "spot Messi" in a sea of surrounding figures—highlighting how VIP access dominated the field-level view.

The disruption escalated quickly, with some fans breaching barricades and invading the pitch. Police intervened, deploying anti-riot forces to restore order. Organizer Satadru Dutta was arrested on cheating charges, while authorities promised ticket refunds and launched investigations.

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologized publicly to Messi and fans, ordering a high-level probe to assign responsibility. The incident overshadowed positive moments like Messi's virtual unveiling of his 70-foot statue and interactions with figures like Shah Rukh Khan.

This embarrassing start to the tour underscores challenges in managing high-profile events and prioritizing public access over elite gatherings and has drawn criticism for turning a fan-focused occasion into perceived exclusivity. Messi proceeded to Hyderabad for the next leg, with heightened security measures expected.

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