Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated visit to Kolkata descended into chaos at Salt Lake Stadium after widespread confusion, disrupted stadium tours, and unmet expectations left fans angry and frustrated, forcing organisers to end the event earlier than planned. What was promoted as a celebratory moment for Indian football fans quickly turned contentious as thousands of attendees complained of poor crowd management and last-minute access restrictions.

The event, part of Messi’s brief India visit, was marketed as a rare opportunity for fans to see the global football icon in person. Tickets were sold in multiple categories, with many fans paying premium prices after being promised a structured programme that included stadium access and a clear viewing experience. However, as crowds gathered at Salt Lake Stadium, entry delays, unclear instructions, and sudden changes to the schedule led to mounting confusion. Several fans reported that stadium tours mentioned during promotions were either curtailed or cancelled without prior communication.

According to eyewitnesses and local media reports, Messi’s appearance inside the stadium was extremely brief and tightly controlled. As word spread through the stands that the programme was being wrapped up, frustration turned into open protest. Videos circulating on social media showed fans shouting slogans and throwing plastic bottles and debris onto the field, with some minor damage reported to seating areas. Security personnel intervened quickly, and organisers decided to cut the event short citing safety concerns. Messi was escorted out of the venue under heavy security as the situation escalated.

Many fans expressed that their anger was directed not at Messi but at what they described as mismanagement by the organisers. Several attendees said they had travelled from outside Kolkata, booked accommodation, and rearranged work commitments to attend the event, only to leave without a clear view or meaningful experience. Social media platforms were flooded with posts questioning the high ticket prices and accusing organisers of overselling expectations without adequate planning on the ground.

Authorities later confirmed that police deployment and crowd control outside the stadium functioned as planned, but responsibility for managing the event flow and fan experience inside the venue rested with the organisers. Officials said the situation was brought under control swiftly and no serious injuries were reported. An internal review is expected to examine whether safety norms and ticketing representations were followed.

The incident has reignited debate about how large-scale celebrity sports appearances are handled in India, particularly when they are driven by private promoters rather than formal tournaments. Sports management experts point out that while security considerations are crucial for global icons like Messi, lack of transparent communication can quickly turn excitement into unrest. Without clear expectations being set for fans, even minor deviations can escalate into crowd-control challenges.

For Indian football fans, Messi’s Kolkata visit was meant to be a historic moment. Instead, the disruption at Salt Lake Stadium has left many disappointed and sceptical about similar high-profile appearances in the future. As questions continue to be raised about planning, communication, and accountability, the episode stands as a cautionary tale of how poor execution can overshadow even the biggest name in world football.

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