Messi’s India tour concludes smoothly after chaotic Kolkata start
Lionel Messi’s visit to India ended on a calm note, following a turbulent start in Kolkata where frustrated fans caused damage to a stadium in their attempts to see the football superstar. The initial chaos drew attention to crowd management challenges and the overwhelming excitement surrounding Messi’s appearance in the country.
Despite the rough beginning, the remainder of Messi’s tour proceeded without incident. Public events, meet-and-greets, and media appearances went ahead as planned, allowing fans across India to engage with the football icon. Organisers emphasised improved safety measures and crowd control following the Kolkata incident.
Officials noted that the stadium damage in Kolkata was limited and no serious injuries were reported. Security personnel and local authorities reviewed the situation to prevent similar occurrences in the future, highlighting the scale of enthusiasm Messi generates internationally.
Fans expressed relief and satisfaction that the tour concluded safely, while Messi’s team praised local organisers for ensuring smooth operations at subsequent events. Analysts suggested that while celebrity visits can boost local tourism and media attention, they also require careful planning to manage large, eager crowds.
The tour’s conclusion marks a high-profile moment in India’s growing engagement with global sports stars, reflecting both the country’s passion for football and the logistical challenges of hosting major international figures.