Messi’s Kolkata Visit Ends in Fan Fury Over Brief Appearance

The much-anticipated Kolkata stop of Lionel Messi’s G.O.A.T. Tour descended into chaos on Saturday, leaving fans frustrated and angry after many claimed they barely got a glimpse of the Argentine football superstar.

Attendees at Salt Lake Stadium, who had paid ticket prices ranging from $60 to $300, said Messi arrived around 11:15 a.m. but did not take a full lap around the stadium, leaving large sections of the audience disappointed.

Instead, Messi remotely unveiled a 21-metre (70-foot) statue of himself in Kolkata, as part of his three-day tour that had generated immense fan excitement.

Several fans alleged that the brief appearance fell far short of what had been promoted as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

Tempers reportedly flared inside the venue, with spectators shouting slogans and even throwing chairs and water bottles in protest.

Organisers have yet to issue a formal response addressing the complaints, leaving the controversy unresolved as discussions continue online. (Agencies)