Lionel Messi
Chaos at Kolkata Stadium During Lionel Messi's India Tour Labeled as "Systemic Failure" by West Bengal Governor
Dec 13, 2025 10:59 pm CST
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose condemned the chaotic scenes at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium during football superstar Lionel Messi's brief appearance, calling it a "systemic failure" that humiliated both the state and sporting world. The incident saw angry fans storming the pitch when they couldn't properly see Messi, leading to vandalism and requiring riot control intervention. The event organizer was subsequently arrested as Messi continued his three-city India tour.
Chaos Erupts at Lionel Messi's Kolkata Visit: Fans Riot After Failed Glimpse of Football Icon
Dec 13, 2025 09:16 pm CST
Lionel Messi's highly anticipated visit to Kolkata ended in disaster as thousands of football fans who paid premium prices couldn't see the superstar amid tight security and poor event management. The chaos escalated to vandalism and riots, prompting political backlash, a public apology from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the arrest of the event organizer as authorities ordered full refunds for disappointed spectators.
Chaos at Lionel Messi's Kolkata Event: BJP Slams Mamata Banerjee for "Complete Mismanagement"
Dec 13, 2025 06:57 pm CST
The visit of football superstar Lionel Messi to Kolkata descended into chaos at Salt Lake Stadium as angry fans breached security and vandalized property after being unable to see their idol. BJP leaders harshly criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress for alleged mismanagement, while Banerjee has apologized and announced an inquiry. The high-profile event, which cost attendees up to Rs 14,000 per ticket, was cut short amid the disorder, with political blame-trading following the international embarrassment.
Mamata Banerjee Issues Public Apology Following Chaos at Lionel Messi's Kolkata Event: Investigation Ordered
Dec 13, 2025 06:57 pm CST
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ordered an official inquiry and issued a public apology after Lionel Messi's appearance at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata descended into chaos. Fans who paid up to Rs 14,000 for tickets vandalized the stadium when unable to see the football superstar, forcing organizers to cut short the event and hurriedly escort Messi away. The incident has sparked political backlash with opposition BJP criticizing the event's security arrangements and management just months before elections.