New Delhi: Football icon Lionel Messi wrapped up his three-day visit to India on Monday with a high-profile appearance in New Delhi, bringing an end to a tour that drew massive crowds, intense fan excitement, and contrasting scenes of celebration and disruption across cities.
The Argentina World Cup winner’s visit began in Kolkata, where anticipation around his appearance turned chaotic due to crowd control and organisational shortcomings. Thousands of fans gathered at the venue, but confusion over access, limited visibility of the footballer, and unmet expectations led to unrest. Some spectators damaged property and attempted to breach restricted areas, prompting police intervention. Local authorities later detained an event organiser as part of an inquiry into the incident.
Despite the disorder in Kolkata, Messi’s subsequent appearances in Hyderabad and Mumbai passed without major disruptions, with fans turning out in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the global football star.
The tour concluded in New Delhi, where the atmosphere was markedly more controlled and celebratory. Messi was welcomed at a stadium event marked by confetti displays, music, and fan interactions. He spent time acknowledging supporters and participating in ceremonial activities, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
The visit highlighted Messi’s immense popularity in India, a country traditionally dominated by cricket, but where football fandom has grown steadily in recent years. His presence generated significant public attention, with fans travelling long distances and gathering in large numbers to see the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in person.
While the tour succeeded in showcasing Messi’s global appeal, the events in Kolkata also raised questions about event planning, crowd management, and the challenges of hosting international sports icons in densely populated urban settings.
Messi departed India following the Delhi event, concluding a visit that underscored both the passion of Indian sports fans and the logistical pressures that accompany such large-scale appearances.
