Lionel Messi's whirlwind three-day tour of India, aptly named the "GOAT India Tour 2025," concluded in New Delhi on Monday, leaving a trail of captivated fans and a blend of chaotic moments and heartwarming interactions in its wake. The Argentine football legend's visit spanned four cities – Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi – and showcased the nation's fervent love for football, even in a country primarily known for its cricketing passion.
The tour's commencement in Kolkata was marred by disorganization and security lapses, casting a shadow over the initial enthusiasm. An event at Salt Lake Stadium had to be halted due to these issues, leading to the arrest of the promoter and a formal investigation. However, the subsequent legs in Hyderabad and Mumbai proved to be significantly more successful, with Messi engaging with fans and sharing the stage with Indian superstars.
In Hyderabad, Messi participated in an exhibition football match with the state's Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, and even met Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha. Mumbai witnessed Messi's presence at the Wankhede Stadium, where he met cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar and Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri. The image of these sporting titans together became a defining moment of the tour, symbolizing the unifying power of sports.
The final leg in New Delhi aimed to provide a smooth and memorable conclusion to the tour. Despite foggy conditions delaying Messi's arrival, he eventually reached the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a venue primarily used for cricket, to a roaring welcome. There, he met with young footballers, played a "rondo" with children on the pitch alongside teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, and signed jerseys, creating unforgettable memories for the aspiring talents.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah presented Messi with a ticket to the India vs. USA match at the 2026 T20 World Cup, along with a cricket bat signed by India's 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad. This gesture highlighted the cross-cultural appeal of Messi and the growing interconnectedness of sports. Messi, Suarez, and De Paul also received specially curated Indian cricket jerseys.
Addressing the crowd at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Messi expressed his gratitude for the "crazy" experience and the overwhelming love he received in India. He acknowledged the tour's intensity but emphasized the lasting impression the affection left on him, stating his desire to return to India in the future.
While the tour undoubtedly generated excitement and provided unique opportunities for Indian fans to witness Messi's brilliance firsthand, it also faced criticism. Some questioned the exorbitant prices for premium experiences, such as handshakes and photos, and the allocation of resources towards the event, contrasting it with the needs of grassroots sports development.
Despite the controversies, Messi's visit served as a powerful inspiration for young footballers in India and reinforced the country's potential as a destination for global sporting events. The "GOAT India Tour 2025" ultimately showcased the unifying power of sports and left an indelible mark on the hearts of Indian football fans.
