Jamnagar, India - Global football icon Lionel Messi concluded his GOAT Tour 2025 with a visit to Vantara, a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation center founded by Anant Ambani near Jamnagar, Gujarat. The Argentine legend's visit, accompanied by his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, highlighted the convergence of sportsmanship and compassionate care for animals.
Messi's arrival at Vantara was marked by a traditional welcome, featuring folk music, floral greetings, and a ceremonial 'Aarti'. He participated in traditional Hindu rituals, reflecting Indian cultural values. These included Nariyal Utsarg and Matka Phod, symbolizing goodwill and auspicious beginnings. Messi also offered prayers for world peace and unity, aligning with India's ethos of reverence for all living beings.
During his tour of Vantara, Messi explored the expansive conservation ecosystem, home to rescued big cats, elephants, herbivores, reptiles, and fostered young animals from across the globe. He observed animal welfare practices, including specialized medical care, customized nutrition, behavioral training, and husbandry protocols. At the care center for lions, leopards, tigers, and other endangered species, Messi interacted with animals thriving in enriched, naturalistic environments. He also visited the Herbivore Care Centre and the Reptile Care Centre, observing animals flourishing under specialized veterinary care. Officials briefed Messi and his companions on the rehabilitation processes for animals rescued from challenging situations, preparing them for long-term care in a protected environment.
Beyond the animal care facilities, Messi toured the green energy complex and the world's largest refinery complex, expressing amazement at the scale and vision behind the operations. He engaged in discussions with the conservation staff, gaining insights into their daily work.
Messi, who leads the Leo Messi Foundation dedicated to social causes, education, healthcare, and children's welfare, expressed a deep sense of alignment with Vantara's purpose and appreciation for its vision of compassionate, science-driven care for animals. He stated, "What Vantara does is truly beautiful, the work for animals, the care they receive, the way they are rescued and looked after. It is genuinely impressive". He added, "We had a wonderful time, felt completely at ease throughout, and it is an experience that stays with you. We will surely visit again to continue inspiring and supporting this meaningful work".
Vantara officials shared photos of Messi's visit, including his participation in the Ambe Mata Puja, Ganesh Puja, Hanuman Puja, and Shiv Abhishek. Reliance stated that Messi's visit underscored the shared values that align Vantara's mission with Messi's global legacy.
Messi's visit to Jamnagar followed the conclusion of his G.O.A.T. India Tour, which included stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.
