Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour Event Marred by Crowd Violence at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata
On 13 December 2025, the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, West Bengal, India hosted an event as part of Lionel Messi's GOAT tour, with tickets reportedly costing up to Rs 12,000.
Messi appeared briefly for around 20 minutes, walking around the pitch but was largely obscured by a large entourage before being quickly escorted away by security.
The situation escalated as crowd hostility grew; some fans stormed the pitch and caused damage to banners, tents, chairs, and water bottles.
The event's chief organiser was arrested, and authorities have announced they will investigate responsibilities and consider possible refunds for ticket buyers.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologized for the disturbances and announced a detailed enquiry to establish accountability and prevent a recurrence.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) clarified that it was not involved in organizing the private event.
Messi was accompanied by fellow footballers Luis Suárez and Rodrigo de Paul, and actor Shah Rukh Khan met Messi earlier in the day. Additionally, a 70-foot statue of Messi was unveiled in Kolkata.
