What was supposed to be a historic moment for Indian football fans turned into a public relations disaster as Lionel Messi’s much-hyped “GOAT Tour” kicked off in Kolkata with utter mayhem. The unveiling of a gigantic 70-foot Messi statue,touted as the world’s largest tribute to a footballer,was completely overshadowed by angry crowds, security breaches, and a stadium in shambles.

Organizers had promised fans an unforgettable experience, with tickets selling for as much as 12,000 rupees (about $130). Instead, thousands were left fuming as Messi, flanked by his superstar friends Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, made a blink-and-you-miss-it appearance. Surrounded by a wall of security and VIPs, Messi barely waved before vanishing, leaving fans with little more than a distant glimpse and a lot of disappointment.

The crowd’s frustration quickly boiled over. As it became clear that Messi’s “grand” appearance would last just 20 minutes, chaos erupted. Furious fans ripped out stadium seats and hurled them onto the pitch, while others tried to storm the field. The event, meant to be a celebration, ended in violence and confusion, forcing organizers to pull the plug early and leaving the stadium littered with debris.

“Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi. Why did they call us then?” one irate fan told reporters, echoing the outrage of many who felt duped by the event’s empty promises. “We have got a ticket for 12,000 rupees, but we were not even able to see his face.”

The fallout was immediate. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rushed to social media to issue a public apology to Messi and his fans, calling the event’s mismanagement “deeply disturbing.” She announced an official enquiry, vowing to hold those responsible accountable and prevent future fiascos.

Meanwhile, the Indian football federation wasted no time distancing itself from the debacle, insisting it had nothing to do with the planning or execution. The blame, they said, lies squarely with the PR agency behind the event.

The incident has sparked a national conversation about India’s ability to host major sporting events, especially when international icons are involved. For Messi, the Kolkata chaos is a stark reminder that global stardom comes with unpredictable risks,especially when fans feel shortchanged.

As Messi’s tour moves on to other cities, all eyes are on organizers to see if they can avoid another embarrassing spectacle. After the Kolkata disaster, fans and critics alike are demanding answers,and a real chance to see their football hero up close, not just from the cheap seats.