Spider-Man 4 has swung into unexpected controversy. A new promo featuring Tom Holland and Lionel Messi was meant to be a fun crossover moment. Instead, it has sparked backlash from some Marvel fans online.
Marvel fans erupt over a crossover stunt with the football legend
Spider-Man 4, officially titled Spider-Man: Brand New Day, is already one of the biggest movie events of the summer. However, its latest promotional stunt has not landed smoothly with everyone. Tom Holland shared a new Instagram Reel featuring Lionel Messi as part of the movie’s promotional rollout. In the clip, Holland’s Peter Parker crosses paths with the football legend before the pair lean into a playful Spider-Man-inspired moment.
On paper, the Lionel Messi collaboration looked like an easy win. Messi brings global star power, while Holland’s Spider-Man remains one of Marvel’s most popular heroes. However, the crossover quickly divided fans.
Some viewers praised the surprise pairing, while others called it random and unnecessary. Criticism also intensified following recent controversy involving Messi and Egypt coach Hossam Hassan.
Several fans reacted negatively in the Instagram comments. One wrote, “Not too late to take this down.” Another commented, “Spiderman you’re my favorite hero. Don’t let me hate you because of a goat.” A third added, “Don’t force us not to watch the movie,” while another simply wrote, “Boycott the film.”
The controversy surrounding the Tom Holland and Lionel Messi crossover comes at a major moment for the franchise. Spider-Man: Brand New Day hits theaters on July 31, 2026, with Holland returning as Peter Parker and Zendaya also part of the cast.
For now, the Messi collaboration has succeeded in getting people talking. Whether that ultimately helps the movie or affects fan sentiment remains to be seen.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE SPIDER-MAN 4 AND LIONEL MESSI CROSSOVER?
Originally reported by Misbah Pandith on RealityTea.
