West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Saturday criticised organisers of Lionel Messi’s GOAT India Tour for “callously commercialising” the event and ignoring fans’ sentiments after chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
“The organisers have ignored the fans, who make an icon an icon. Fans have the right to see their hero, yet the organisers focused solely on money-making, which a civilised society cannot endure,” Bose said, urging that fans should not be blamed for their reaction to poor event management.
The Kolkata leg of Messi’s tour descended into chaos as fans, frustrated over high ticket prices and limited access, began throwing bottles and attempting to break stadium gates after the Argentine star left early. Some even tried to vandalise tents and the goal post, prompting police to use mild force to control the crowd.
West Bengal police have arrested the event organiser for mismanagement. Governor Bose suggested a judicial inquiry, refunding ticket prices, compensating stadium authorities for damages, and taking care of the injured. “Severe action should be taken against those found guilty… Using Messi and sports for making money should be prohibited,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologised to fans and Messi, expressing her distress over the mismanagement at the stadium and acknowledging the disappointment of sports lovers and supporters.
The Governor’s comments highlight concerns over the prioritisation of commercial gains over fan experience during high-profile sporting events. (Agencies)
