Lionel Messi Set to Make Historic Return to India in December 2025

Messi's Anticipated Visit to India

New Delhi: Argentine football icon Lionel Messi is set to visit India this December, marking his first trip to the country since 2011. Event promoter Satadru Dutta confirmed on August 15 that Messi will kick off his four-city "GOAT Tour of India 2025" in Kolkata on December 12. The tour will take him to Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, concluding with a personal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 15 at the PM's official residence. Dutta expressed excitement, stating, "This is finally happening," and mentioned that Messi will reveal the official tour poster via his social media channels between August 28 and September 1. Earlier this year, Dutta met with Messi's father and later discussed the tour concept with Messi during a 45-minute meeting at his home on February 28. "He appreciated the vision and saw it as a meaningful engagement," Dutta noted.

Kolkata: The Grand Kick-Off

Messi is expected to arrive in Kolkata on the night of December 12, spending two days in the city—the longest duration of his Indian tour. On December 13, fans can meet Messi at a morning event at the Taj Bengal hotel, which will also feature a unique Argentine-Indian tea and food festival. "Messi enjoys mate, so we’re combining it with Assam tea for a fusion experience. We’ll also highlight Bengal’s famous fish dishes, including hilsa, and popular sweets," Dutta shared. Later that day, Messi will unveil a large statue in his honor and attend the "GOAT Concert" and "GOAT Cup," which will be held at either Eden Gardens or Salt Lake Stadium.

Additionally, a massive mural (25 feet high and 20 feet wide) is being created for the Durga Puja celebrations. Fans will have the chance to contribute messages and artwork at selected pandal sites, and the finished mural will be presented to Messi during the stadium event. Venue confirmation between Eden Gardens and Salt Lake Stadium is expected within the next two weeks.

Celebrity Football Match: The GOAT Cup

The Kolkata segment will also host a friendly 7-a-side football match called the "GOAT Cup," where Messi is anticipated to play alongside Indian sports and entertainment figures such as Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia, Leander Paes, and John Abraham. Ticket prices are expected to start at ₹3,500, with a full house anticipated. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is also expected to honor Messi during his visit. Security measures are being prioritized in collaboration with Kolkata Police. Dutta mentioned, "The Commissioner has entrusted me with ensuring everything goes smoothly," adding that Messi’s team is equally focused on fan safety.

Continuing the Tour: Ahmedabad and Mumbai

On the evening of December 13, Messi will travel to Ahmedabad for a private event hosted by the Adani Foundation. The following day, he will be in Mumbai, where he will participate in a meet-and-greet at the CCI Brabourne Club and take part in the "GOAT Padel Cup." Padel, a racket sport played in an enclosed court, is reportedly one of Messi’s favorites. He is expected to engage in a celebrity padel match with stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Leander Paes, likely playing for around 10 minutes.

The Mumbai leg will also feature the GOAT Concert and Cup at Wankhede Stadium, with plans for a special "GOAT Captains" moment involving cricket legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Sharma. Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh, Aamir Khan, and Tiger Shroff are also anticipated to join the festivities.

Finale in the Capital

Messi’s tour will conclude in New Delhi on December 15, where he will have an exclusive meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. That evening, the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium will host the final GOAT Concert and GOAT Cup of the tour. Organizers are working with the Delhi District Cricket Association to invite top cricket personalities like Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, the latter being a known Messi admirer. Both Gill and Kohli are expected to be available following India’s third T20I against South Africa, scheduled for the day before in Dharamsala.