New Delhi: Football icon Lionel Messi has officially confirmed that he will be visiting India in December 2025, marking his return after 14 years. The Argentina captain will travel to Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi, while also hinting at the possibility of visiting another city during his stay.
Messi’s visit, long speculated over the past month, was announced on Thursday evening. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will appear at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on December 13, Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on December 14, and Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on December 15. His last trip to India was in 2011, when Argentina played a friendly against Venezuela in Kolkata.
Expressing his excitement, Messi said on Instagram: “I’m truly excited to be visiting such a beautiful country as India this December. It will be a pleasure to attend concerts, youth football clinics, a paddle cup, and launch charitable initiatives during events at iconic stadiums in Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, and maybe one more city… These tickets will be available exclusively on the District app. It will also be an honour to meet India’s biggest stars and top dignitaries. Thanks to The Satadru Dutta Initiative for making this possible after 14 years.”
In Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that Messi’s visit to Mumbai will be part of the “GOAT Tour” on December 14. As part of the program, under-14 football players from across the state will get the rare opportunity to train with the World Cup-winning captain.
“Guess what! Lionel Messi is coming to Maharashtra and will play football with you, my young friends! Thank you, Messi, for gifting me your signed football! I welcome your visit to Mumbai on December 14. Young talents from Maharashtra will get to practice with him,” Fadnavis posted on X.
Messi’s tour will include youth development initiatives, star-studded events, and interactive sessions, further fueling the excitement among Indian football fans eager to witness the Argentine legend in person.
