At a youth soccer event hosted by Inter Miami on May 28, 2025, an unfortunate incident unfolded when a young fan attempted to approach soccer superstar Lionel Messi. The boy, believed to be an ardent Messi fan, suddenly ran onto the field in an effort to hug his idol but was swiftly and forcefully stopped by security personnel.
According to eyewitnesses at the scene, the incident occurred during a friendly match or promotional event organized by Inter Miami, where Messi was present to interact with young fans and support junior players. The boy, seemingly driven by admiration, breached the security barrier to get close to the Argentine star. However, before he could reach Messi, a security guard tackled him to the ground.
Footage of the incident captured a chaotic scene as the security guard overpowered the young fan, leaving many spectators at the event shocked and upset. Some felt the security response was excessive, especially since the boy appeared to have no harmful intentions. “It was just a kid wanting to meet his idol,” one attendee told the New York Post. “They could have handled it more gently.”
Inter Miami has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident, and the boy’s identity remains undisclosed. However, images and videos circulating on social media have sparked debates about how security personnel handle such situations, particularly when they involve children and high-profile figures like Messi.
Lionel Messi, known for his approachable and friendly demeanor with fans, appeared to have no direct reaction to the incident, as it unfolded too quickly. However, those present at the event noted that Messi seemed surprised by the security team’s actions.
This incident highlights the intense passion fans have for Messi, a global icon with millions of admirers worldwide. It also raises questions about how to balance ensuring the safety of celebrities with respecting the emotions of fans, especially young ones.
It remains unclear whether the boy was injured, but the incident left a strong impression on those who witnessed it. Online communities are now calling on Inter Miami to review how security handles similar situations in the future to prevent such unfortunate events.