Football icon Lionel Messi, along with Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, is set to visit the Vantara wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar on Monday, ahead of the conclusion of his GOAT India Tour. The trio will be hosted by Reliance Industries Executive Director Anant Ambani, founder of the expansive facility.
The visit marks the latest in a series of high-profile tours to Vantara, which has previously welcomed global dignitaries including Donald Trump Jr. and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Messi and his teammates are expected to stay overnight at the centre, experiencing its unique blend of conservation, animal care, and research initiatives.
Vantara, certified under the Global Humane Society’s animal welfare programme, focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, captive breeding, research, and reintroduction of threatened species. The centre combines animal care outside natural habitats with conservation of native ecosystems, reflecting its holistic approach to wildlife preservation.
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The facility spans over one lakh square feet and features a state-of-the-art animal hospital, complete with MRI and CT scan units, ICU, endoscopy suites, dialysis support, and advanced surgical technology, ensuring comprehensive care for its residents. Messi’s visit will offer him and his teammates a firsthand view of the centre’s cutting-edge operations.
Earlier on Monday, Messi had thrilled fans in New Delhi during the final leg of his India tour, following successful events in Mumbai and Hyderabad. His visit to Vantara represents a unique blend of sports, conservation, and celebrity influence, further amplifying global attention on India’s wildlife initiatives.
Anant Ambani welcomed the football legends, highlighting the centre’s commitment to animal welfare and education. The visit is expected to inspire greater awareness about conservation among young fans and reinforce the role of high-profile figures in promoting environmental causes.
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