Lionel Messi to Return to India After 14 Years
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has officially confirmed his participation in the much-anticipated GOAT (All-Time Great Player) Tour India 2025, calling it an “honor” to visit a passionate country of football like India. This marks Messi’s return after 14 years; his last appearance on Indian soil was in 2011 during a friendly match where he captained Argentina against Venezuela at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
In a statement released on Thursday, Messi said,
“India is a very special country, and the time I spent here 14 years ago remains with me. The fans were fantastic, and I am eager to meet a new generation, sharing my love for this beautiful game.”
Messi’s words have sent waves of excitement among football fans across the country, who are eagerly awaiting the superstar’s December visit.
Four Cities, One Legendary Tour
The organizers unveiled the detailed itinerary on August 15, confirming Messi will visit four major Indian cities. The tour kicks off in Kolkata on 13 December, followed by stops in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, concluding on 15 December with a high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The tour will feature a variety of events, including concerts, meeting sessions, a Food Festival, football masterclasses, and even a paddle exhibition at Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium. In Kolkata, Messi will return to the Salt Lake Stadium, participating in the GOAT Concert and the GOAT Cup on 13 December — exactly 14 years after his last match there.
Sharing the Stage with Indian Sports Legends
The GOAT Cup promises to be a historic event, with Messi expected to share the field with celebrated Indian sports icons like Sourav Ganguly, Baichung Bhutia, and Leander Paes. Organizers are planning a 25-foot high mural and the unveiling of the largest Messi statue in India during the Durga Puja festival. Tickets are expected to start at Rs 3,500, offering fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness history.
Promoter Shatdru Dutta said,
“This tour will showcase a blend of Indian and Argentine culture. Messi will also attend the Paddle GOAT Cup in Mumbai and meet Bollywood and sports stars, including Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar, and MS Dhoni. Security arrangements will be unprecedented to ensure safety for all participants.”
Possibility of a Second Visit in November
Adding to the excitement, Argentina’s national team, coached by Lionel Scaloni, has included India in its program for the November FIFA international window, with a friendly match scheduled in Kerala between 10 and 18 November. While Messi’s participation is not yet confirmed, it raises the possibility of the superstar visiting India twice within two months.
An official source commented,
“If Messi comes twice in a short span, it will be a phenomenal treat for Indian fans. The November match may proceed even if Messi does not join, as part of Argentina’s three-match FIFA friendly window.”
The Argentina Football Association (AFA) confirmed in a statement that the team will have two international windows in 2025 — the first in the US from 6 to 14 October, and the second including Kerala, India, from 10 to 18 November, with opponents yet to be finalized.
Global Impact of Messi’s December Tour
Lionel Messi, 2022 World Cup-winning captain and Olympic gold medalist, is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time. His India tour is expected to become one of the largest football-related events in the country, attracting fans, celebrities, and media from across the globe. From Kolkata to New Delhi, Messi’s visit promises unforgettable moments for football enthusiasts and is set to further ignite India’s passion for the beautiful game.
