Our Bureau
Kolkata
Football legend Lionel Messi has officially confirmed his participation in the much-anticipated GOAT Tour of India 2025, marking his return to the country after 14 years. Messi described India as a “very special country” and expressed his excitement to reconnect with the nation’s passionate football fans. The Argentine star fondly recalled his previous visit in 2011, highlighting the fantastic support from Indian fans.
The GOAT Tour is scheduled for December 13 to 15, spanning four major Indian cities—Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The tour’s kickoff will take place at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, where Messi previously played in a FIFA friendly match. The event will feature the “GOAT Concert” and “GOAT Cup,” where Messi is expected to share the stage with iconic Indian sports figures such as Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia, and Leander Paes.
In addition to matches and concerts, Messi will engage in meet-and-greet sessions, food festivals, football masterclasses, and a padel exhibition at Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium. The Mumbai leg will include the “Padel GOAT Cup,” featuring celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar, and MS Dhoni.
The tour will culminate in New Delhi with a meeting between Messi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 15 with organizers promising a cultural blend of Indian and Argentine elements.
