Messi Statue Removed from Indian City Due to Safety Concerns
June 2, 2026 • Al Jazeera
A 21-metre statue of Lionel Messi in Kolkata, India, has been taken down due to safety concerns. The statue, which was reportedly the world’s tallest footballer statue at the time of its installation, had been erected by organizers.
According to reports, the statue was removed after it was discovered that it was swaying in the wind. This led to concerns about the stability and safety of the structure.
The exact circumstances surrounding the removal of the statue are not yet clear. However, officials have confirmed that the decision was made due to safety reasons.
The statue’s removal has sparked interest among locals and football fans alike. The statue had been a prominent feature in the city’s landscape since its installation.
Details about the statue’s construction and maintenance are not available at this time. It is unclear whether any repairs or modifications were made before the statue was taken down.
The removal of the statue marks the end of an era for the structure, which had become a notable landmark in Kolkata. Further information on the reasons behind its removal will likely be released in due course.
Source: Al Jazeera