Background on Football Fandom in India
In India, a country where cricket is the dominant sport, regions like West Bengal, Kerala, and Goa have long had a significant number of football enthusiasts. This context is crucial to understanding the recent events surrounding Lionel Messi’s visit.
Messi’s India Tour Begins with Chaos
Lionel Messi’s India tour kicked off in disarray on Saturday when soccer fans turned rowdy, throwing objects, ripping out seats, and invading the field at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The Argentine football star only made a brief appearance at an event that was supposed to have ticketed entry.
The Shortened Appearance and High Ticket Prices
Messi was scheduled for a 45-minute visit to the stadium, but his appearance lasted only 20 minutes. Tickets for the event were priced at around 3,500 Indian Rupees (approximately $38.65 USD), which is more than half of the average weekly income in India. However, one fan claimed to have paid $130 for the ticket.
Fan Behavior and Organizer’s Arrest
Fans at the Salt Lake Stadium in West Bengal’s capital threw seats and other objects onto the field, while several individuals climbed a perimeter fence and also threw items. Satadru Dutta, the main organizer of the event, has been arrested by West Bengal police, according to Rajeev Kumar, the Director General of Police.
“Unbelievable Mismanagement,” Says Fan
Eddie Lal Hmangaihzuala, who traveled nearly 1,500 kilometers from Mizoram over two days to attend the event, expressed his disbelief: “I can’t believe there was such poor management. Messi left quickly, likely feeling unsafe. I barely got a glimpse of him,” he told Reuters.
Apologies and Investigation Ordered
West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, apologized to Messi and ordered an investigation into the incident. She expressed her deep dismay and distress regarding the poor management at Salt Lake Stadium, posting on X (formerly Twitter): “I sincerely apologize to Lionel Messi, all sports lovers, and his fans for the unfortunate incident.”
Banerjee announced the formation of a committee to conduct a thorough investigation, assign responsibilities, and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
History of Fan Incidents at Salt Lake Stadium
The Salt Lake Stadium has a history of fan-related disturbances, including a 2012 Calcuta derby match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, which was abandoned after a brick thrown from the stands hit a player, causing serious injury.
Argentine football legend Diego Maradona visited Calcuta twice, with a statue unveiling in his honor taking place in 2017 amidst the enthusiastic support of thousands of fans. Messi, who led Argentina in a friendly match against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in 2011, virtually unveiled a 70-foot statue of himself in Calcuta earlier on Saturday.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Lionel Messi? An Argentine professional footballer, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
- Why is his India visit significant? As part of a promotional tour, Messi planned to attend concerts, youth football clinics, a paddle tennis tournament, and launch benevolent initiatives in Calcuta, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi.
- What led to the fan riots during his visit? Fans paid high prices for tickets, expecting more interaction with Messi. When his appearance was brief, tempers flared, leading to the chaos at Salt Lake Stadium.
- What actions have been taken following the incident? West Bengal police arrested the main organizer, and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologized and ordered an investigation into the poor management of the event.
