NATIONAL: ₹100 Crore for Messi’s India Tour: Investigation Uncovers Crucial Details
Lionel Messi’s much-hyped GOAT India Tour 2025 kicked off in Kolkata on December 13, but quickly descended into disorder at Salt Lake Stadium.
Fans, eager for a glimpse of the football icon, ended up frustrated as his appearance lasted only about 20 minutes.
The chaos stemmed from poor crowd management, with dignitaries and VIPs swarming the field, blocking views for ticket holders in the stands.
Organiser’s Arrest and Ongoing Inquiry
Event promoter Satadru Dutta, who spearheaded the tour under his initiative, faced immediate consequences.
Police arrested him at Kolkata airport while he tried to leave with Messi’s group, and a court later remanded him to 14-day custody.
A special investigation team now questions him on mismanagement and possible financial issues surrounding the multi-city visit.
Revelations on Messi’s Discomfort
During interrogation, Dutta shared that Messi felt uneasy with excessive physical contact from the crowd.
Security had warned in advance about the star’s preference against being touched or hugged.
Despite repeated public appeals to maintain distance, control slipped, prompting Messi to exit earlier than planned.
Crowd Control Breakdown
Only 150 passes were meant for field access, yet nearly three times that number entered, worsening the situation.
Announcements over the loudspeaker failed to calm the surge.
This breach turned excitement into unrest, with some fans later damaging stadium property in protest.
Financial Details Emerge
Dutta disclosed the tour’s hefty price tag during questioning. He claimed Messi received Rs.89 crore, plus Rs.11 crore in taxes paid to authorities, totaling Rs.100 crore.
Funding reportedly came partly from sponsors and ticket revenue, though police continue verifying accounts amid frozen assets.
Broader Implications
- How will this affect future high-profile sports events in India?
- Can better protocols prevent VIP overruns in fan-focused gatherings?
- Will refunds and accountability restore trust among supporters?