KOLKATA, Dec. 13: A ticketed Lionel Messi event at Salt Lake Stadium spiralled into vandalism on Saturday after fans said they could barely see the football star before he was rushed out.
Reuters reported that Messi’s appearance lasted about 20 minutes, with the player shielded by a large entourage, and the mood in the stands turned quickly once it became clear the program was ending early.
Inside the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, also known as Salt Lake Stadium, angry spectators ripped up seats, hurled objects towards the track and field area, and some breached barriers and moved onto the ground.
The Indian Express reported that seats in the gallery were damaged, banners and posters were torn down, and water bottles were lobbed onto the field as chants of “We want Messi” broke out.
Fans quoted across outlets said the frustration centered on visibility, with one attendee telling ANI, “Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi,” and complaining about paying premium prices for a moment they could not properly watch.
Hindustan Times reported ticket prices reaching up to ₹18,000, and said fans demanded refunds after Messi’s brief 22 minute visit, while Reuters cited a ₹12,000 ticket complaint.
Police used mild force to regain control, and The Indian Express reported a lathi charge as some tried to enter the field.
West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar said the main organiser had been detained and that authorities would act over the “mismanagement,” according to Economic Times’ live updates.
The Indian Express reported that organiser Shatadru Dutta was arrested, with Additional Director General (Law and Order) Jawed Shamim saying traffic normalised and “no injury or major incident happened.”
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologised publicly and announced a probe, writing that she was “deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement” at the stadium, according to Reuters and other reports.
The Indian Express also reported that Messi arrived in Kolkata around 2:30 a.m., virtually inaugurated a 70 foot statue in Lake Town from his hotel, and then reached the stadium before leaving amid security concerns.
Officials said the organiser gave written assurances on refunds, and the state announced an inquiry committee to fix responsibility and recommend steps to prevent a repeat.
As of late Saturday, authorities had not publicly released a detailed estimate of property damage inside the venue, and police statements cited by The Indian Express said there were no major injuries.
