Argentine football star Lionel Messi declined a request to remain longer at the stadium in Kolkata, despite repeated appeals from former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, and departed for Hyderabad.
The incident occurred during the inauguration of the “GOAT Tour” at Salt Lake Stadium, where growing disorder disrupted the event. Amid the chaos, Sourav Ganguly and chief organizer Saptadro Dutta requested Messi to stay for a while longer so fans could see him, but Messi’s security team rejected all such requests due to serious safety concerns.
According to reports, an uncontrollable crowd, worsening discipline, and indications of a possible security breach prompted Messi’s team to refuse taking any risk. There were also reports of bottles being thrown from the stands, further escalating tensions at the venue.
At the time, Messi was preparing to leave the ground and departed in a vehicle along with his Argentina World Cup–winning teammate Rodrigo De Paul and close friend, Uruguayan star Luis Suárez.
Reports suggest that Ganguly personally appealed to Messi to stay briefly so the spectators present in the stadium could catch a glimpse of him, but the security team did not grant permission. Organizer Saptadro Dutta and several administrative officials were also present at the venue; however, given the deteriorating law-and-order situation, Messi’s team stood firm on its decision.
Lionel Messi reportedly remained on the field for around 20 minutes, during which he was surrounded by ministers, VIPs, and their aides, leaving fans with little opportunity to see him clearly.
Meanwhile, as Messi departed for Hyderabad, chief organizer Saptadro Dutta was arrested at Kolkata airport. Following the incident, Messi announced on social media that ticket money would be refunded, but the post was later deleted.
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