Lionel Messi detained at China airport, allowed entry in country after 30 minutes

Add as a preferred source on Google

Argentina''s World Cup-winning captain Lionel Messi was detained at Beijing Airport on Saturday, June 10 ahead of his team's international friendly match against Australia at the Workers Stadium in Beijing.

When Messi arrived in China to lead his champion side, he was stopped at the airport by the Chinese Border Police. According to reports, the issue was visa related. The 35-year-old was traveling with his Spanish passport rather than his Argentinian passport.

Reportedly the former Barcelona star didn't apply for a visa. Messi was travelling with his Spanish passport which does not allow visa-free entry into China, but they can enter Taiwan without a visa. The Argentine reportedly thought that Taiwan was a part of China and didn't apply for a visa.

There was also a confusion between Messi and the Chinese airport guards due to the language barrier but it got resolved soon. After about 30 minutes, the situation was resolved as Messi received an expedited visa.

Messi recently left PSG as a free agent to join American club Inter Miami. In his most recent match, the 7-time Ballon d'Or winner was booed by PSG fans. Former teammate Sergio Aguero rushed to Messi's defence.

"Leo's time at PSG has been very relevant. Only two players have passed 20 goals and 20 assists in the five major leagues, including the Champions League. The first is Leo, and the second is Vinicius. He was also Ligue 1's top assister, with 16 passes leading to goals," he said.