Chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday as thousands of fans reacted angrily to football superstar Lionel Messi’s early departure from the venue.
Messi, 38, who is touring India as part of his “GOAT Tour,” had drawn huge crowds since arriving in West Bengal earlier in the day.
Fans wearing Messi jerseys and waving Argentine flags packed the stadium to catch a glimpse of the Argentina and Inter Miami forward.
Despite heavy security, Messi walked around the pitch, waved to supporters, and left the stadium earlier than expected, prompting frustration among fans.
Many who had paid over $100 for tickets reportedly vandalised the stadium, ripping out seats, storming the pitch, and throwing water bottles. Banners and tents were also damaged.
“For me, to watch Messi is a pleasure, a dream. But I missed the chance to see him because of the mismanagement in the stadium,” said businessman Nabin Chatterjee, 37.
Another fan told the Press Trust of India that attendees had spent “a month’s salary” to see the football icon.
Earlier during the event, Messi had unveiled a 21-metre (70-foot) statue of himself holding the World Cup trophy.
He was also expected to play a short exhibition game, which did not take place due to the disruptions.
State Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock at the incident and apologised to Messi and his fans via social media, adding that she had ordered an investigation into the mismanagement.
Messi’s India tour continues with stops in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, including a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The forward recently won his second consecutive Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player award after leading Inter Miami to the MLS title.
