Global football icon Lionel Messi has arrived in Mumbai as part of his GOAT India Tour 2025, prompting heightened security measures across the city. The Mumbai Police have deployed over 2,000 personnel and implemented strict protocols, including restrictions on items allowed inside venues, to ensure the safety of the Argentine superstar and the public.
The security arrangements have been described as "World Cup-level" following chaotic scenes and reported security breaches during Messi's appearance in Kolkata. Authorities are determined to avoid a repeat of the crowd mismanagement witnessed there. Mumbai's security plan emphasizes crowd safety, with strict entry restrictions, watchtowers, and coordinated movement between venues.
Messi's Mumbai schedule includes attending the Padel GOAT Cup event at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) and then proceeding to Wankhede Stadium for the main GOAT India Tour program. He is expected to participate in photo opportunities with Bollywood celebrities and other guests at Wankhede Stadium. Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri and cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar are also expected to join him.
The city police are implementing stringent security measures, such as not allowing water bottles, metals, and coins inside the stadiums. Watchtowers have been set up to monitor the crowds closely. Traffic restrictions and diversions will be in place near Churchgate, Marine Drive, and roads leading to Wankhede Stadium and the Cricket Club of India.
The Mumbai leg of the GOAT India Tour 2025 will conclude with a closed-door charity fashion show and auction, showcasing memorabilia from Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup victory. Actors like Jackie Shroff, John Abraham, and Kareena Kapoor Khan are expected to attend the charity event.
The tour arrives in Mumbai after events in Kolkata and Hyderabad. The first day of the tour in Kolkata was marred by confusion inside Salt Lake Stadium, where thousands of disappointed fans protested after struggling to catch a clear glimpse of Messi despite high ticket prices. In Hyderabad, Messi participated in an exhibition match attended by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also in attendance.
Mumbai Police have appealed to fans to arrive early, follow instructions, and remain patient, stressing that safety will not be compromised under any circumstances. Officials underlined that lessons from Kolkata's experience have shaped Mumbai's approach, with the city determined to ensure that Messi's visit remains a celebration of sport rather than a crowd control crisis.
