Lionel Messi touches down in Kolkata to launch GOAT India tour

Kolkata: Lionel Messi has touched down in Kolkata to launch the GOAT India Tour 2025, receiving a rapturous welcome from thousands of fans who gathered in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The Argentine superstar arrived from Miami via Dubai, greeted by a sea of blue and white jerseys at the airport. Despite the late hour, security personnel maintained a tight cordon as ecstatic supporters climbed barricades, waved flags, and chanted the World Cup winner's name. This visit marks Messi's return to India after 14 years, setting off a wave of excitement across the City of Joy.

"There is a great atmosphere of joy that Messi is coming to India after 14 years," said tour organiser Satadru Dutta. "Football’s connection to India is growing again. Never before have so many sponsors come to Indian football."

Fans, many of whom had camped out for hours, described the arrival as surreal. "We have been waiting for two hours. If needed, we will wait for even four. We can’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," one supporter told ANI. Another fan described the atmosphere as "truly magical", calling Messi a "magician".

The Kolkata leg is the first stop on a packed three-day itinerary that will also see the football legend visit Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi.

Messi’s schedule in Kolkata kicks off this morning with a private meet-and-greet between 9:30 am and 10:30 am for select guests. He is then scheduled to virtually inaugurate a statue dedicated to him, acknowledging the city’s deep affection for Argentine football.

The centrepiece of the visit will take place later today at the Yuva Bharati Stadium. Messi is set to participate in a friendly match and a fan interaction programme, with thousands of spectators expected to fill the stands. Tickets for the event, which were sold via the District app starting at approximately ₹4,500, were snapped up quickly due to high demand.