Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has taken legal action against a group of environmental activists after they vandalised his mansion in Ibiza.

About ten days ago, members of the environmental group Futuro Vegetal painted the facade of Messi’s mansion in Ibiza with red and black paint. The group claimed the act was a protest against what they describe as the “responsibility of the rich” in the current climate crisis.

According to Argentine newspaper Clarín, Bilbo Bassaterra, leader of Futuro Vegetal, revealed that Messi’s legal team has filed a lawsuit demanding compensation of 50,000 euros.

“We were detained for two days, but it was not immediate. A day after the incident, the police raided us and we were arrested. After processing, we were released. But now, we have to pay Messi that amount for painting his house with tempera paint that is easily washed off? That is what his lawyers are demanding,” Bassaterra said.

Why was Messi’s mansion attacked? In a separate interview with Argentine outlet TN, Bassaterra explained the reason behind the attack: “This mansion was built without the proper permits, bypassing all administrative procedures. In addition, it violates two environmental laws, posing a risk of collapse and is located in an area of particular vulnerability for aquifers. This week, Ibiza declared a state of emergency due to drought.”

Future Plant released a statement following the act of vandalism, saying its “non-violent civil disobedience” action was intended to highlight the continuation of government policies that worsen the climate crisis, as well as the unequal responsibility of the wealthy in contributing to the problem.