Lionel Messi’s India tour starts in chaos as angry fans throw seats in stadium

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by ReutersDecember 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM

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Lionel Messi's India tour began chaotically in Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday when frustrated fans, upset by his brief appearance, ripped up seats and threw them onto the pitch. Messi is in India for a tour including concerts, football clinics, a padel tournament, and charitable initiatives across several cities. He walked around the pitch for approximately 20 minutes before leaving, prompting the outburst. Police detained the event's chief organizer, Satadru Dutta, and pledged refunds for tickets. West Bengal's chief minister, Mamata Banerjee, apologized to Messi and ordered an investigation into the mismanagement, promising to prevent future incidents.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

India ×240% Kolkata 50% Mamata Banerjee 50% Salt Lake Stadium ×280% Lionel Messi ×9100%

Keywords

lionel messi 100% fan chaos 90% india tour 80% stadium seats 70% mismanagement 70% kolkata 60% salt lake stadium 60% refund tickets 50% police investigation 50%