Mumbai, December 14, 2025 – Lionel Messi has arrived in Mumbai today for the third leg of his highly anticipated GOAT India Tour 2025, following a tumultuous start in Kolkata and a more smoothly executed visit to Hyderabad. The Argentine superstar's tour, which combines public appearances, cultural events, and charitable initiatives, has already captivated the nation, though not without its share of drama.
Messi's arrival in Mumbai marks the continuation of a whirlwind tour that began in Kolkata on December 13. The Kolkata leg was marred by chaos at the Salt Lake Stadium after fans grew angry due to the limited opportunity they had to see Messi. The event was cut short, and disgruntled fans ripped up seats and threw objects onto the pitch, leading to the detention of the event's chief organizer and an apology from West Bengal's Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee. She also ordered an investigation into the incident.
Despite the Kolkata setback, Messi proceeded to Hyderabad, where he participated in a 7v7 exhibition match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium alongside Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. The event also saw the presence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The Hyderabad leg was significantly more organized, allowing fans to enjoy Messi's presence without the disturbances seen in Kolkata.
Today in Mumbai, Messi's schedule is packed with a mix of sporting and philanthropic engagements. The day is set to commence with participation in the Padel Cup at the Cricket Club of India (CCI). Following the Padel Cup, Messi will attend the main GOAT India Tour program at Wankhede Stadium. A ceremonial kick-off will be followed by a seven-a-side exhibition match, with several Bollywood celebrities expected to participate. Later in the evening, Messi is scheduled to make an on-field appearance to greet fans.
The Mumbai leg will conclude with a closed-door charity fashion show and auction, showcasing memorabilia from Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup victory. The charity event is expected to be attended by Bollywood stars such as Jackie Shroff, John Abraham, and Kareena Kapoor Khan.
After Mumbai, Messi will travel to New Delhi on December 15 for the final leg of the GOAT India Tour 2025. In Delhi, he is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attend events at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, including the felicitation of Minerva Academy players.
The GOAT India Tour 2025 marks Messi's first visit to India in 14 years. Despite the initial hiccup in Kolkata, the tour is expected to leave a lasting impression on Indian football fans, blending sports, entertainment, and charitable initiatives across the country.
