Mumbai (Maharashtra): Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has arrived in Mumbai, marking the third stop of his much-anticipated GOAT India Tour 2025. The World Cup-winning icon reached the Taj Mahal Hotel amid tight security and growing excitement among fans across the city.
Messi’s India visit has been closely followed nationwide, especially after contrasting experiences in earlier venues. While his first stop in Kolkata was marred by chaos at Salt Lake Stadium—where fans expressed frustration over limited access due to VIP and political presence—the second leg in Hyderabad turned into a memorable celebration of football.
Hyderabad Visit Draws Massive Crowd
At the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium on Saturday night, thousands of fans witnessed Messi in action during a special 7-on-7 exhibition football match. The event featured Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and saw the Argentine superstar soaking in the energy of an enthusiastic crowd.
Messi also met Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and presented him with his iconic Argentina number 10 jersey. The football icon posed for photographs alongside his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul. The Telangana Chief Minister felicitated Messi with a commemorative momento during the event.
As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Messi also spent time with children at the venue, briefly kicking the ball with them—creating moments that many young fans will remember for a lifetime.
Mumbai Gears Up for Messi
Mumbai is expected to offer an equally warm reception as Messi continues his journey across India. During his stay, the Maharashtra Sports Department will select under-14 footballers from across the state, who will get a rare opportunity to train with the global icon on Sunday.
The initiative aims to inspire young talent and strengthen grassroots football development, giving aspiring players first-hand exposure to one of the greatest footballers in history.
Final Stop in Delhi
After Mumbai, Delhi will be the final destination of Lionel Messi’s GOAT India Tour 2025 on Monday. With each city drawing massive crowds and attention, the tour has underscored Messi’s unmatched popularity in India and the country’s deep-rooted love for football.
