17-6-2023 (BEIJING) A football fan who made headlines by jumping onto the pitch to embrace Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi during a friendly match between Argentina and Australia in Beijing has been taken into custody by authorities. The individual, identified as Mr. Di, an 18-year-old male, has been administratively detained by the Chaoyang Public Security Sub-bureau and is now facing a 12-month ban from attending any sports events.
This dude even got an interview????#messi #messichina pic.twitter.com/afFD4pAiAv
— Oboomber (@Oboomber) June 15, 2023
The Chaoyang Branch of the Beijing Public Security Bureau made an official statement on June 16 through their WeChat account, “Ping An Beijing Chaoyang.” They confirmed the detention of Mr. Di in accordance with the law and the subsequent ban on his attendance at similar sporting events for a year.
Expressing remorse for his actions, Mr. Di acknowledged and accepted the punishment imposed by the authorities. He hopes that his case will serve as a cautionary tale for other fans, highlighting the importance of respecting rules and maintaining order within sports arenas.
The incident occurred on the evening of June 15 at the Workers’ Stadium during the Argentina vs. Australia friendly match. Mr. Di leaped from the stands, embracing Lionel Messi, his football idol, and sprinted across the field before being escorted off by stadium staff. The fan’s actions caused a temporary disruption in the game.
