Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend and 2022 World Cup winner, will tour India in December 2025, bringing his “GOAT Tour of India 2025” to major cities across the country.
Lionel Messi is set to make his much-anticipated return to India this December, with plans to visit Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi over just three days. The football superstar, currently dazzling fans with Inter Miami in MLS, will be making his first visit to India since 2011, and expectations are sky-high—especially with rumours of appearances by his clubmates and friends, and even a possible meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
What’s On Messi’s India Tour Agenda?
Messi’s tour, titled GOAT Tour of India 2025, will see him land in Kolkata on December 12, 2025. The following days will be packed with events in each city, including football clinics, fan meet-and-greets, and charity initiatives. As reported by Moneycontrol and confirmed by event promoter Satadru Datta, Messi’s team is keen to make this visit special—and accessible—for football lovers across the country.
“Yes, it is now all confirmed, and I wanted to do it for the football fans as a gift on Independence Day. Messi will be in four cities, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad, and the idea is to give as many football fans the opportunity to experience what he is all about,” Datta told Moneycontrol.
Lionel Messi’s India Tour Itinerary and Events
While the full schedule is still being finalised, here’s what we know so far:
- Kolkata: Messi’s first stop, with a special football clinic planned. There will also be an elaborate Argentine-Indian ‘mate’ tea session at his hotel, the Taj Bengal, and a curated Bengali food festival featuring hilsa and other local delicacies.
- Ahmedabad: There are strong rumours of a possible meeting with Prime Minister Modi at the latter’s residence, and even talks of a cricket match featuring cricket legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma—though this is not yet confirmed.
- Mumbai: Expect high-profile fan interactions and city events, likely at a major stadium.
- New Delhi: More football clinics and philanthropic activities are expected, with exact venues to be finalized.
Adding to the excitement, Messi’s Inter Miami teammates Rodrigo De Paul, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets are rumoured to accompany him, though nothing is guaranteed yet.
Security and Fan Experience
After the tragic stampede outside Bangalore’s Chinnaswamy Stadium following a recent IPL match, Messi’s team is especially focused on security and fan safety. Every event will be held in large stadiums with ample facilities for ticket sales and crowd control.
“Messi’s team was very particular about security and not just his security but for every fan who will come and attend the events. He doesn’t want a single fan who comes to go back unhappy or go back with an unpleasant memory. Each event will be in a stadium in Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai and we will have adequate provisions for fans to buy tickets,” Datta said.
Tickets and Official Announcement
Messi is expected to announce the tour officially on his social media on September 1. Tickets will go on sale shortly after, so fans should keep an eye out for updates on dates, venues, and booking procedures.
Well, Messi’s visit is more than just a commercial, celebrity tour—it’s about sharing his passion for football, connecting with fans, and inspiring a new generation in a country that loves its sports. With the GOAT Tour of India 2025, India is ready to welcome Messi and, perhaps, write a new chapter in football history.