KOLKATA: Chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday after thousands of fans, disappointed by Lionel Messi’s brief appearance, broke through barricades and stormed the pitch during the football icon’s visit to India.

Messi, who is in the country on a three-day tour as part of a high-profile “GOAT Tour,” arrived in West Bengal earlier in the day to a rapturous welcome from fans chanting his name. The 38 year old Argentina and Inter Miami superstar quickly became the center of attention in Kolkata, where massive crowds gathered in hopes of catching a glimpse of the World Cup winner.

As the day progressed, Salt Lake Stadium filled with fans wearing Messi jerseys and waving Argentine flags. However, heavy security arrangements around the footballer meant many supporters struggled to even see him. Messi eventually walked around the pitch, waving to the crowd, but left the stadium earlier than expected, triggering frustration among spectators.

Angry fans, many of whom had paid more than $100 for tickets, began ripping out stadium seats and throwing water bottles onto the track. Several supporters breached security, stormed the pitch, and vandalised banners and tents inside the venue.

“For me, watching Messi is a dream come true, but I missed even a glimpse because of the mismanagement in the stadium,” said 37-year-old businessman Nabin Chatterjee while speaking to AFP.

Before the situation spiralled out of control, Messi had unveiled a 21-metre (70-foot) statue depicting him holding the FIFA World Cup. He was also scheduled to participate in a short exhibition match, which did not take place as planned.

Another disgruntled fan told Press Trust of India (PTI) that many people had spent a significant portion of their income just to attend the event. “I paid Rs 5,000 ($55) for the ticket and came with my son to watch Messi, not politicians. The police and military personnel were busy taking selfies. The management is to blame,” said Ajay Shah.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her disappointment over the incident and apologised publicly. “I am disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement. I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for this unfortunate incident,” she said in a post on X, adding that an official probe had been ordered.

Despite the turmoil in Kolkata, Messi’s India tour will continue, with scheduled visits to Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. His itinerary may also include a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Argentine great comes to India on the back of another remarkable achievement, having won his second consecutive Major League Soccer (MLS) Most Valuable Player award after leading Inter Miami to the MLS title and finishing as the league’s top scorer. Messi is also set to captain Argentina as they prepare to defend their FIFA World Cup crown in June-July next year in North America.