Lionel Messi hails India as a passionate football nation, says its an honour to return

New Delhi: Lionel Messi has officially confirmed his participation in the highly anticipated GOAT Tour of India 2025, describing it as an "honour" to return to a country he last visited 14 years ago. The Argentine superstar called India a "passionate football nation" and expressed excitement at reconnecting with fans and sharing his love for the game.

In a statement, Messi said, "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 here 14 years ago - the fans were fantastic." He added, "I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game.”

Messi will kick off his tour in Kolkata on December 13 at Salt Lake Stadium before moving on to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. The tour will conclude on December 15 with a scheduled meeting with Narendra Modi. The Kolkata stop will feature both the "GOAT Concert” and the "GOAT Cup,” with Messi expected to share the stage and field with Indian sports icons including Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia and Leander Paes.

The organisers have planned a series of events that blend Indian and Argentine culture, including food and tea festivals highlighting Messi's fondness for Argentine tea, a 25-foot-high mural and the unveiling of his largest-ever statue. Ticket pricing for the event are expected to start at Rs 3,500, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be one of India’s most spectacular football-related events.

Even as preparations for December continue, there are reports that Messi could make a separate visit in November. Argentina’s national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, is scheduled to play a FIFA international friendly in Kerala between November 10-18. While the final opponents and venue are yet to be confirmed, it remains uncertain if Messi will feature in that match. A source indicated it is more likely that the Argentine squad, without Messi, will make the Kerala visit.

The December tour will include meet-and-greet sessions, football masterclasses, a padel exhibition in Mumbai and multiple concerts. Security is expected to be unprecedented, with Messi’s personal team coordinating closely with local authorities. In Mumbai, the "Padel GOAT Cup” will also be graced by Bollywood and cricket stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, adding to the grandeur of the tour.

Messi's return to India after 14 years is generating global attention as it will reinforce the country’s status as a passionate football hub and promise an unforgettable celebration of sport and culture for four days.