Giant Lionel Messi statue in India to be removed after safety concerns

A giant statue of football icon Lionel Messi erected in eastern India is set to be removed after officials raised safety concerns, including reports that the structure was “swaying in the wind,” according to a report by the Agence France-Presse (AFP).

The 21-metre (70-foot) golden-coloured statue, installed in the city of Kolkata, was built to commemorate Messi’s visit to the region last year. However, local authorities and workers were seen on Wednesday securing the structure with ropes before beginning steps toward its dismantling.

A local lawmaker told AFP that the statue had become unstable, prompting concerns over public safety, especially given its height and exposure to strong winds in the area. Images from the site reportedly showed workers climbing the structure and reinforcing it as preparations for removal got underway.

The installation had attracted attention from football fans and residents since its unveiling, reflecting Messi’s global popularity and the strong following for international football in India.

While the statue was intended as a celebratory landmark, officials say safety considerations ultimately necessitated its removal to prevent potential accidents.

There has been no indication of injuries or damage linked to the structure at the time of reporting.