Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and Argentina legend, concluded his highly anticipated GOAT India Tour 2025 with a touching Instagram post, expressing profound gratitude for the overwhelming love and hospitality received during his whirlwind visit. Accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, the 38-year-old superstar toured Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi from December 13 to 15, engaging in fan interactions, youth clinics, celebrity exhibitions, and cultural events without playing competitive matches.
On Instagram, Messi shared a captivating one-minute video montage captioned "Namaste India!", highlighting cherished moments such as jersey exchanges with cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar and football legend Sunil Chhetri in Mumbai, interactions with Bollywood stars like Kareena Kapoor Khan, and sessions with aspiring young players across cities. He wrote: "What incredible visits... Thanks for the warm welcome, great hospitality and all the expressions of love. I hope football has a bright future in India," underscoring his optimism for the sport's growth in the cricket-dominated nation.
The tour commenced controversially in Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, where organizational issues and overcrowding by dignitaries limited fan visibility, leading to unrest, vandalism, and an early departure amid security concerns. Authorities, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, issued apologies, and the promoter faced legal action. In stark contrast, the subsequent legs in Hyderabad, Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, and Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium unfolded seamlessly, filled with enthusiastic crowds, photo opportunities, kickabouts, and demonstrations that delighted attendees.
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Messi's encouraging message for Indian football comes at a pivotal time, as the sport faces domestic hurdles like delays in the Indian Super League season due to administrative and commercial challenges. His engagements with figures like Bhaichung Bhutia and high-profile meetings highlighted football's rising appeal and potential for further development in India.
Following the official tour's finale in Delhi, Messi extended his stay for a private visit to Vantara, Anant Ambani's wildlife rescue and conservation centre in Jamnagar, where he participated in traditional rituals, toured facilities, and had a lion cub named "Lionel" in his honor. In his parting words, Messi promised fans: "We take all this love with us and we'll definitely return, hopefully to play a match or on another occasion."
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