Hyderabad is set to welcome Lionel Messi, the Argentinian football legend, as part of his "GOAT Tour to India 2025". The confirmation came from Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, who unveiled an official poster announcing Messi's visit on December 13, 2025.
Originally, Hyderabad was not on the tour list, but it was added after Argentina's proposed friendly match in Kochi was cancelled. This ensures that fans in South India will have the opportunity to see Messi in person. The "GOAT Tour" will now include Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, making it a nationwide event.
Messi is scheduled to arrive in Hyderabad on the evening of December 13th, following celebrations in Kolkata. The event in Hyderabad, expected to take place at 7 PM, will feature a 7 vs 7 celebrity football match, a masterclass for young talents, penalty shootouts, and a musical concert. The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal or the Gachibowli Stadium are potential venues. Football stars Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul are also expected to participate.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed his excitement about Messi's visit and its potential to promote football in Hyderabad. He also revealed plans to invite Messi to inaugurate a youth development program and involve the state's corporate fraternity in the event. The Telangana government is considering appointing Messi as the global ambassador for "Telangana Rising 2047," an initiative to boost the state's global image and promote economic growth, employment, women empowerment, and innovation. If Messi accepts the ambassador role, it could significantly enhance Telangana's visibility in tourism, investment, and sports.
This marks Messi's second visit to India, following his first in September 2011 when he captained Argentina in a friendly match against Venezuela in Kolkata. This tour promises to be more than just football, with concerts, charity events, and meet-and-greet sessions planned.
Tickets for the events are expected to be available on the District app and are likely to sell out quickly. For fans seeking an exclusive experience, organizers are offering packages that include a private meet and greet, photo opportunities, and autographed jerseys, with the "GOAT Fan Experience" priced at Rs 9.95 lakh.
The addition of Hyderabad to the "GOAT Tour" itinerary is a testament to the growing passion for football in the city. Local football academies are planning celebrations, and security teams are preparing for large crowds. Messi's visit is anticipated to be a historic moment for Indian football fans and a significant boost for Telangana's global profile.
