Lionel Messi has formally confirmed that he will visit India in December 2025 as part of his GOAT Tour of India, calling the trip an “honour” and praising India for its passionate football culture.
“It is such an honour for me to make this trip. India is a very special country, and I have good memories from my time there 14 years ago — the fans were fantastic,” Messi said in an official statement. “India is a passionate football nation, and I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game.”
Messi’s confirmation comes after organizers unveiled the itinerary in mid-August, making this the first time the football icon himself has publicly endorsed the visit.
Tour Route: Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, New Delhi
Messi’s GOAT Tour is scheduled across four Indian cities from December 13 to December 15. The tour will open in Kolkata and conclude with a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi
In Kolkata, the Salt Lake Stadium has been confirmed as the venue for the GOAT Concert and GOAT Cup on December 13, where Messi is expected to share the field with Indian sporting legends such as Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia, and Leander Paes.Other events on the tour include musical performances, meet-and-greet sessions, football masterclasses, and a padel exhibition in Mumbai at Brabourne Stadium. A significant mural and a large statue of Messi will also be unveiled during the festivities.
Ticket prices are expected to start around ₹3,500.
Messi’s Past India Visit & Emotional Return
Messi’s last visit to India was in 2011, when he captained Argentina in a friendly match against Venezuela held at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
His return after 14 years has stirred excitement among fans, many of whom remember the 2011 match as a momentous occasion. This upcoming visit carries emotional weight—not just for Messi’s legacy, but for Indian football’s growing ambitions.
Speculation Over November Friendly in Kerala
Ahead of the December tour, there is speculation that the Argentina national team may play a friendly match in Kerala between November 10 and 18.
If confirmed, it could mark Messi’s second visit to India in two months—though it is unclear whether Messi himself would feature in the Kerala match.
Impact on Indian Football & Cultural Significance
This tour transcends entertainment. Messi’s words and presence reaffirm India’s growing relevance in global football. The combination of sports, music, cultural exchange, and national icons aims to bridge fanbases and generate lasting impact on grassroots football in India.
For many young players, seeing Messi in person will be an inspiration. For the football ecosystem, it provides media attention, sponsorship interest, and public momentum.
Looking Forward
Messi’s GOAT Tour of India 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the country’s most significant sporting events in years. His praise for India and the “honour” of returning echoes the respect he carries for his hosts. Whether the Kerala friendly happens or not, December is likely to deliver unforgettable moments for fans, football culture, and the sport’s future in India.
