Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Swipe for next article

Independent Bulletin homepage

Download our
Social Partner

We are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)

Chaos as Lionel Messi’s India tour sees fans hurl objects onto pitch

Riot police were called as fans trampled onto the pitch in protest — Riot police were called as fans trampled onto the pitch in protest (REUTERS)

Lionel Messi's 'GOAT' tour in India began chaotically in Kolkata, sparking protests from fans.
Supporters at Salt Lake stadium ripped up and threw seats onto the pitch after Messi made a brief 20-minute appearance.
Fans expressed anger at being unable to see the football star clearly due to a large entourage, despite paying high ticket prices.
Messi's tour includes various events such as concerts, youth football clinics, and charitable initiatives across several Indian cities.
Kolkata, a city with a significant football fanbase, previously hosted Messi in 2011 and recently saw him virtually unveil a 70-foot statue.

Lionel Messi’s India tour descends into disarray as fans hurl objects onto pitch — In full