Indian authorities have taken decisive action regarding a statue of football legend Lionel Messi in Kolkata, West Bengal. The statue, which has been a topic of much discussion, was removed by order of city officials due to safety concerns.
According to reports from the BBC, the statue’s considerable size and structure made it a potential hazard for residents, particularly as strong winds caused it to sway dangerously. Concerns over public safety prompted the authorities to act swiftly.
The dismantling of the 21-meter statue, crafted from fiberglass and iron and initially secured with nylon ropes, occurred amid fears that these measures were insufficient during heavy winds. Officials have assured the public that the statue will be reinstalled at a different location, where it can be safely displayed.
The Messi statue was first unveiled in December 2025 as part of the football star’s three-day GOAT India Tour 2025.