Fan Unrest Disrupts Lionel Messi Statue Unveiling in India
Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated statue unveiling in India faced significant disruption due to fan unrest on December 11, 2025. This event marked the start of Messi’s “GOAT Tour,” which includes stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi.
Unruly Scenes at Salt Lake Stadium
The chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata during Messi’s scheduled appearance. Although he was expected to promote the unveiling of a monumental 70-foot statue—the largest of a footballer—the situation quickly deteriorated. Fans became frustrated as Messi was only visible for approximately 20 minutes.
Fans Express Discontent
Many spectators expressed anger over the arrangement. Despite paying around 12,000 rupees ($130) for their tickets, fans claimed they could hardly see the star player due to the security barriers. One fan remarked, “Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi. Why did they call us then?”
Response from Authorities
The unrest prompted a swift reaction from local officials. Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal, publicly apologized to Messi and promised an inquiry. She stated, “I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today.”
- Event: Messi’s statue unveiling
- Date: December 11, 2025
- Location: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
- Ticket Price: 12,000 rupees ($130)
- Statue Height: 70 feet
Banerjee ordered an inquiry committee to investigate the incident. The committee’s goal is to assess accountability and suggest preventive measures for future events. Meanwhile, the Indian football federation voiced its concerns but clarified that it was not involved in organizing the event.
This event serves as a reminder of the challenges in managing large-scale public gatherings, especially for international sports icons like Messi. As the tour progresses, the hope remains that the remaining events will occur without incident.
