Lionel Messi is demanding ₦88 million in damages after his ₦19.2 billion mansion in Ibiza was vandalized, according to Pulse Sports.
The incident took place on August 6 when the property was defaced with red and black graffiti by the environmental group Futuro Vegetal. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has since filed a formal complaint with the Civil Guard through an employee on the Balearic island, seeking €50,000 (₦88 million) in compensation.
Futuro Vegetal, which describes its actions as “non-violent civil disobedience,” carried out the vandalism to draw attention to the role of the wealthy in contributing to the climate crisis. However, Messi views the act as a serious violation, warranting substantial financial restitution.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Bilbo Bassaterra, a spokesperson for Futuro Vegetal, expressed surprise at Messi’s demand, arguing that the damage was minor and could easily be remedied. Bassaterra suggested that Messi’s legal action may be an attempt to intimidate and silence the group’s activism, but affirmed that Futuro Vegetal remains dedicated to its mission of combating climate change.