Authorities in the city of Kolkata in the Indian state of West Bengal have removed and confiscated the 70-meter ‘unsafe’ statue of football legend Lionel Messi.
According to media reports, the construction department has received complaints from local citizens that the giant statue sways during strong winds, which could pose a threat to public safety.
According to reports, the statue of Argentine star Messi, who was carrying the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy, was brought down with heavy cranes.
The statue was installed during Messi’s visit to India in December 2025, the statue was sponsored by the former ruling Trinamool Congress party.
According to Indian media reports, following the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recent state elections, many past public projects and iconic buildings are being re-examined.
Earlier, a football-themed statue was erected in Kolkata, which was rejected by the sports minister of the new government.
