
It was supposed to be a festive event, but it turned out to be the complete opposite. Lionel Messi's tour of India got off to a chaotic start, with multiple incidents forcing the event to be halted after a very brief appearance by the Argentine star.
Fans threw benches and other objects onto the pitch and onto the stadium track, and occupied the area around the pitch. Some people climbed the perimeter fences and caused damage, including breaking the stage set up for the event. Messi, surrounded by a large number of bodyguards, only stayed in the stadium for about 20 minutes before leaving.
After the incident, the prime minister of the state apologized to Lionel Messi and ordered the launch of an investigation to clarify the responsibilities and causes of the chaos. An atypical scene, considering that fans have built statues in honor of the world champion, but also welcomed his arrival with celebration and cheers.
Messi is in India as part of a promotional tour, during which he is expected to participate in concerts, youth football clinics, a padel tournament, and launch charity initiatives in several major cities.