Lionel Messi's highly anticipated "GOAT India Tour 2025" concluded in Delhi on December 15, 2025, with a flurry of excitement and a special invitation. The Argentine superstar's visit to the capital marked the final leg of his journey, which included stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad and Mumbai.
The Delhi leg commenced with Messi's arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, albeit with a delay due to foggy conditions. He then proceeded to the Leela Palace Hotel for a meet-and-greet session. The main event was held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Messi, along with his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, took center stage. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) President Rohan Jaitley were also present.
A defining moment of the Delhi visit was the presence of International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah. Shah extended an official invitation to Messi for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, which is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. As a special gesture, Shah presented Messi with a ticket to India's opening match against the USA, scheduled to be held on February 8, 2026, at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
In addition to the World Cup ticket, Messi received a special Indian T20I jersey with his name and number 10 printed on the back. He was also gifted a signed bat from Shah, symbolizing a blend of football and cricket. Shah also presented Indian cricket team jerseys to Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, bearing their names and iconic numbers.
Earlier in the tour, Messi's arrival in Kolkata was marred by chaotic scenes as fans grew frustrated due to limited visibility of the superstar. However, the subsequent stops in Hyderabad and Mumbai were more successful, with Messi interacting with fans and celebrities. In Mumbai, he met with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and Bollywood stars.
Despite the initial hiccups, Messi's "GOAT India Tour 2025" seems to have left a positive mark, fostering a stronger connection between Indian audiences and global football. The tour culminated in Delhi with a symbolic meeting of football and cricket, as Messi received an invitation to witness India's opening match in the T20 World Cup 2026.
