Messi Tour Fallout: Sourav Ganguly Files ₹50 Cr Suit

By Harshit - Dec 19, 2025 07:57 PM
Last updated on Dec 19, 2025 07:57 PM

A major legal battle has erupted in the aftermath of the controversial Lionel Messi G.O.A.T India tour, with former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly moving decisively to protect his reputation. What began as confusion and chaos surrounding Messi’s brief Kolkata visit has now escalated into a high-stakes defamation dispute involving sharp allegations and counterclaims.

The controversy intensified after statements made by a football fan club official publicly linked Ganguly to the organisation of the event. The remarks, widely circulated and debated, prompted the cricket icon to take legal and police action, sending a strong message against what he described as baseless and damaging claims.

As legal proceedings begin to unfold, the episode has thrown a spotlight on the responsibilities of event organisers, the influence of public statements, and the personal toll such controversies can take on high-profile sports figures.

Sourav Ganguly at the Centre of Messi Tour Fallout

Former cricketer and sports administrator Sourav Ganguly found himself unexpectedly drawn into the controversy surrounding Lionel Messi’s much-anticipated visit to Kolkata. The event, initially billed as a celebratory moment for Indian football fans, descended into disorder following Messi’s early departure from the venue.

Amid public disappointment and criticism over the chaotic scenes, Ganguly’s name surfaced in allegations suggesting his involvement in organising the tour. These claims, according to Ganguly, were entirely false and misleading.

The situation compelled him to respond firmly, citing the potential long-term impact on his public image and professional standing.

₹50 Crore Defamation Suit Filed

Sourav Ganguly issued a ₹50 crore defamation suit notice against Uttam Saha, an official associated with a Kolkata-based Argentina Football Fan Club. The legal notice accused Saha of making derogatory and defamatory statements that falsely implicated Ganguly in the Messi tour controversy.

Speaking on the matter, Ganguly stated that such reckless comments could not be allowed to go unchecked, especially when they harm a person’s credibility built over decades.

The substantial sum mentioned in the legal notice underlined the seriousness with which Ganguly views the alleged damage to his reputation.

Police Complaint Lodged With Cyber Cell

In addition to the civil defamation notice, Ganguly also lodged a formal complaint with the Cyber Cell of the Kolkata Police. The complaint detailed how the statements circulated through media interactions had caused him mental distress and reputational harm.

According to police officials, the complaint alleges that the accusations were made deliberately and without factual basis, suggesting an intent to malign.

An investigation has been initiated to examine the content and intent behind the statements, marking the start of a formal legal process.

Allegations Made by Football Fan Club Official

Uttam Saha, while speaking to a journalist, alleged that Sourav Ganguly was the real force behind organising Messi’s G.O.A.T India tour. He further claimed that the prime organiser, who was later arrested, was merely acting as a front.

These assertions quickly gained traction, adding fuel to an already volatile situation following the disrupted event.

Ganguly categorically denied these claims, describing them as unfounded and irresponsible.

Claims of Reputational and Emotional Harm

In his complaint, Ganguly emphasised that the allegations had deeply affected his mental peace. He noted that being publicly associated with organisational failures and chaos was distressing, especially when he had no role in the planning of the event.

He further stated that such claims could mislead the public and permanently damage trust in his professional integrity.

The complaint highlighted the personal cost of misinformation in the digital age.

Decades-Long Career Cited in Defence

Ganguly’s legal communication stressed his long and distinguished career as both a sportsperson and administrator. Over several decades, he earned respect in India and globally for his contributions to cricket and sports governance.

He argued that baseless accusations threaten to undo years of credibility built through consistent professional conduct.

This aspect formed a central pillar of his defamation claim.

Messi Event Chaos at Salt Lake Stadium

The controversy traces back to the disorder at Salt Lake Stadium after Lionel Messi’s premature exit from the venue. Fans, disappointed and frustrated, reportedly resorted to unruly behaviour, forcing organisers to cancel the remainder of the programme.

The incident sparked criticism of the event’s planning and crowd management, drawing political and public scrutiny.

In the aftermath, multiple narratives emerged, some of which dragged unrelated figures into the controversy.

Cancelled Felicitation Programme

Sourav Ganguly was scheduled to be present on the dais alongside West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other dignitaries to felicitate Messi and his entourage.

However, the programme was called off due to the chaos that erupted inside the stadium.

Ganguly later clarified that his presence was ceremonial and had no connection to the organisation of the event.

Sports and Political Repercussions

The fallout from the Messi event extended beyond sports, triggering political consequences and public debate. Questions were raised about accountability and transparency in high-profile international events.

As allegations flew, Ganguly’s legal action marked one of the most significant personal responses to the controversy.

The episode highlighted how quickly reputations can become collateral damage in public disputes.

Legal Battle Sets a Precedent

By pursuing both a police complaint and a substantial defamation suit, Sourav Ganguly signalled a zero-tolerance approach to misinformation.

Legal experts believe the case could set an example for how public figures respond to unverified allegations in media interactions.

The proceedings are expected to draw significant attention as they progress.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Developments

Public opinion has remained sharply divided, with supporters backing Ganguly’s decision to protect his name, while others await the outcome of the investigation.

The controversy continues to dominate sports and legal discussions in Kolkata and beyond.

As the investigation unfolds, the Messi tour fallout serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of public accusations and the importance of accountability in public discourse.

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