Messi arrived at the Salt Lake Stadium on schedule, with his vehicle parked beside the field. However, moments after he stepped out, the scene descended into confusion as celebrities, former cricketers, organisers and unauthorised individuals crowded around him, breaching planned security protocols
Despite repeated announcements by organiser Shatadru Dutta over the public address system urging those not part of Messi’s official entourage to vacate the field, the warnings went largely ignored. The crowd surged forward, with many attempting to take selfies and seek autographs, creating an increasingly unsafe environment.
Messi managed to walk only a short distance onto the field, waving briefly to spectators as chants of “Messi, Messi” echoed through the stands. However, as the crowd pressure intensified and the situation appeared to slip out of control, the football icon was seen moving toward the stands before abruptly turning back.
Angry fans at the Salt Lake Stadium threw bottles and damaged property, accusing organisers of poor planning after Lionel Messi appeared only briefly and left without interacting on the pitch.
Fans said they were unable to see Messi properly despite spending heavily on tickets and travel. (Newswire)
Messi tribute turns messy in Kolkata 🇮🇳⚽
Angry fans at the Salt Lake Stadium threw bottles and damaged property, accusing organisers of poor planning after Lionel Messi appeared only briefly and left without interacting on the pitch.
Fans said they were unable to see Messi… pic.twitter.com/DVS68ay3Z9
— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) December 13, 2025