Lionel Messi To Visit India In December
Indian football fans are set for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, returns to India after 14 years. Messi’s last appearance in the country was in 2011 when he led Argentina against Venezuela in a FIFA friendly in Kolkata, a game that is still remembered as the iconic “Messi match.”
This December, Messi will embark on a four-city tour of India titled the GOAT Tour, confirmed by tour promoter Satadru Dutta. The football icon will travel to Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, combining football, music, culture, and star-studded events.
Messi’s Four-City Tour of India
Kolkata – The Grand Opening on December 12
Messi’s tour will kick off in Kolkata on December 12, marking the longest and most elaborate leg of his India trip. The city is preparing a warm and unforgettable welcome for the Argentine star.
Highlights in Kolkata include:
- Meet-and-greet session with fans
- Food and Tea Festival showcasing Argentine mate and Indian Assam tea
- Unveiling of Messi’s statue
- Presentation of a 25-foot Messi mural painted during Durga Puja celebrations
- The GOAT Concert and GOAT Cup, a seven-a-side football match to be held at either Eden Gardens or Salt Lake Stadium
The football match will feature Messi alongside Indian sports and cinema legends such as Sourav Ganguly, Leander Paes, John Abraham, and Bhaichung Bhutia. Tickets for Kolkata events are expected to start at ₹3,500, with organisers predicting full-house attendance.
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Ahmedabad – December 13 Private Event
The second stop on Messi’s tour will be Ahmedabad on December 13, where he will attend a private event organised by the Adani Foundation. Though smaller in scale, this engagement underlines the global appeal of Messi as he connects with business and cultural leaders in India.
Mumbai – December 14 with Bollywood Touch
Messi’s tour will reach Mumbai on December 14, where he will participate in a meet-and-greet session at CCI Brabourne Stadium. Later in the evening, the GOAT Concert and GOAT Cup will be held at Wankhede Stadium.
A special highlight in Mumbai will be Messi playing padel, a sport he enjoys, alongside celebrities including Shah Rukh Khan and Leander Paes. This unique event is expected to be one of the most exciting attractions of the entire tour.
New Delhi – Grand Finale on December 15
The GOAT Tour will conclude in New Delhi on December 15, with Messi scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence. This will be followed by the final GOAT Concert and GOAT Cup at Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium.
The Delhi District Cricket Association has extended invitations to Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, ensuring that Indian cricket stars will also be part of Messi’s historic India visit. The grand finale is expected to bring together football, cricket, Bollywood, and fans for an unforgettable evening.
Security and Safety Arrangements
Given Messi’s global stature, security will be a top priority throughout the tour. Organisers confirmed that local authorities and Messi’s personal team will work together to ensure smooth and safe events for both Messi and his fans.
Messi’s Last Visit to India in 2011
Messi’s upcoming tour will bring back memories of September 2011, when he led Argentina against Venezuela at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium in a FIFA international friendly. That night remains one of Indian football’s most cherished memories, with fans recalling it as the legendary “Messi match.”
This December, fans will get a chance not just to watch Messi play but also to celebrate him through concerts, cultural festivals, and celebrity matches.
FAQs
Q1. When will Lionel Messi arrive in India for the GOAT Tour?
A. Messi will land in Kolkata on December 12, 2025, to begin his four-city tour.
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Q2. Which cities will Messi visit in India during the GOAT Tour?
A. He will visit Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi between December 12 and December 15.
Q3. What are the ticket prices for the GOAT Tour events?
A. Ticket prices for Kolkata start at ₹3,500, with similar pricing expected across other venues.
Q4. Who are some celebrities participating in the GOAT Cup with Messi?
A. Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia, John Abraham, Leander Paes, and Shah Rukh Khan are among the big names.
Q5. Why is Messi’s visit to India so special?
A. This is Messi’s first visit since 2011, and it combines football, music, culture, and star appearances, making it a historic celebration for Indian fans.
Also Read- How To Book Lionel Messi GOAT Tour Tickets In India: Step-by-Step Guide For All Cities
