Indian Football Legend Calls Out VIP Culture After Lionel Messi's Kolkata Event: 'Sports Should Get Priority'

Last Updated:December 21, 2025, 17:46 IST

Bhaichung Bhutia criticised the chaos at Lionel Messi's event in Kolkata, urging sports events to prioritize fans and players over political formalities and VIP delays.

Fans alleged that the football icon was surrounded by officials, politicians and heavy security, leaving thousands of spectators in the stands unable to get a clear view of Messi. The limited access and lack of engagement left fans deeply disappointed, which soon turned into anger, with some fans throwing bottles and plastic chairs onto the field, damaging stadium property and attempting to breach security barriers. (Image: PTI)

Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia on Sunday described the chaos during Lionel Messi’s public event at the Salt Lake Stadium as undesirable and emphasised that sports events should take precedence over political and bureaucratic formalities.

Speaking after a running event in Kolkata, Bhutia highlighted that fans attend to watch the sport and the players, not for political speeches or ceremonial delays.

“I think when there is a sports event, sports should get priority," he said.

Criticising the frequent delays caused by VIP appearances, Bhutia mentioned, “Many times across India we see sporting events getting delayed because of political speeches, chief guest handshakes and all that. That is not necessary. Fans and players are coming to watch the sport, and the sport should begin rather than waiting for VIPs."

Also Read: Why Was Lionel Messi Unhappy In Kolkata Despite INR 89 Crore India Tour Fee? Organiser Reveals…

Regarding Argentine superstar Messi’s recent G.O.A.T. Tour of India, Bhutia remarked, “It was good to see not just in Kolkata, but across different cities, fans just wanted to see the sporting event, who just wanted to see Messi and nothing else."

Bhutia expressed optimism that this incident would bring about a change in approach.

“I hope this is a lesson we will learn and that this trend will change," he added.

Messi’s promotional event in Kolkata turned chaotic at the Salt Lake Stadium due to organisational lapses and poor crowd management.

Thousands of fans were left frustrated as politicians, celebrities, and officials crowded around the football icon, limiting public interaction and significantly reducing his time on the field. Spectators also caused a commotion inside the stadium.

Mess In Kolkata And Messi In India

Messi made appearances at ticketed events in all four cities, starting with Kolkata. Unfortunately, the event in Kolkata turned chaotic when politicians and officials surrounded Messi, blocking the view for fans who had paid thousands for a seat.

Frustrated by this, the spectators at the Salt Lake Stadium resorted to vandalism, causing Messi to leave earlier than planned.

In contrast, his visits to Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi went smoothly. Messi delighted fans by posing for pictures, showcasing some of his warm-up routines, and briefly playing with young players.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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