Giant Lionel Messi Statue in India Facing Removal

A massive golden sculpture of football superstar Lionel Messi built in India is shaking in the breeze and must come down. A local lawmaker confirmed on Wednesday that the giant monument is no longer safe for the public. Workers have already climbed the 21-metre structure in the eastern city of Kolkata, using heavy ropes around the shoulders to hold it still.

The impressive monument shows the 38-year-old Argentina and Inter Miami attacker lifting the iconic World Cup trophy. It was originally unveiled in December during a special visit from the football superstar Lionel Messi. However, West Bengal state legislator Sharadwat Mukherjee explained that government safety inspectors discovered major structural faults. “The statue of the Argentine football legend in the city of Kolkata was found unsafe by engineers of the West Bengal government,” he announced, adding: “We have noticed that the statue is swaying in the wind.”

The dangerous monument stands right next to a busy highway, making the situation urgent. Mukherjee noted that taking it down is proving quite difficult, stating: “Removal has proved easier said than done. We are planning to remove the statue at the earliest opportunity.” Officials have not yet decided if they will rebuild the tribute to the football superstar Lionel Messi somewhere else.

The news comes as Argentina prepares to defend its global title next month in the United States. Fans expect the legendary forward to play in his sixth world tournament, where he will remain the main man for his country. While cricket dominates the local sports scene, recent data shows football is safely established as the nation’s second favourite sport.