Lionel Messi’s India Tour Organizer Detained Amid ‘Deeply Disturbing’ Chaos

The recent tour of Lionel Messi in India was marred by chaos that led to the detention of the event’s main organizer. On Saturday, after Messi made a brief appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, a large crowd of fans surged onto the pitch, causing significant disruption.

Organizer Detained Following Turmoil

The event organizer, Satadru Dutta, has been remanded to 14 days in police custody due to the upheaval. Rajeev Kumar, the director general of West Bengal police, confirmed Dutta’s detention as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident. A judge at Bidhannagar Court denied Dutta’s bail plea, resulting in his placement in custody.

Fan Disturbance at Salt Lake Stadium

On the day of Messi’s appearance, which was meant to be a ticketed event, chaos erupted. Fans, having paid up to 12,000 rupees (approximately $133), were disappointed after Messi spent only 20 minutes in the stadium, far less than the expected hour. Videos captured by ANI showed individuals vandalizing the stands, ripping seats, and dismantling goal nets, all in a frenzy to catch a glimpse of the football star.

Reactions from Officials

• The governor of West Bengal, C. V. Ananda Bose, demanded immediate action, including the freezing of organizers’ bank accounts and ticket refunds.
• Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her distress over the incident and ordered a probe into the disarray, apologizing to Messi and the fans.
• The All India Football Federation (AIFF) stated that it was not involved in organizing the private event.

Continuing Messi’s Tour

Messi’s visit is part of a larger three-day tour in India, named the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) Tour 2025. Following Kolkata, Messi’s itinerary includes stops in Hyderabad and Mumbai before concluding in New Delhi. In Hyderabad, local officials promised enhanced security measures, ensuring a more organized experience for fans.

Historical Significance of the Event

This event marks Messi’s first appearance in Kolkata since 2011 when he played there during a match between Argentina and Venezuela. Kolkata, known for its passionate football fanbase, witnessed an unprecedented reaction following Messi’s public interaction. The incident serves as a reminder of the intense devotion fans have for the sport and the challenges in organizing large-scale events.

The authorities are now focused on ensuring accountability and preventing such mismanagement in the future while continuing to celebrate the football icon during his time in India.