Mumbai, December 16, 2025 – The wait is finally over for millions of Indian football fans as Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has landed in India for a highly anticipated tour. The atmosphere in the country has reached a fever pitch, with fans from all walks of life celebrating the arrival of the global icon.
Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, kicked off his tour in Mumbai, where he was greeted by a roaring crowd at the airport. His schedule includes a series of events across the country, including exhibition matches, football clinics for young players, and meet-and-greet sessions with fans.
The highlight of the Mumbai leg was an exhibition match at a packed stadium, where Messi’s Inter Miami faced off against a select Indian Super League (ISL) team. The stadium was a sea of pink and blue jerseys, with fans cheering every touch of the ball by the Argentine maestro.
The tour is seen as a major boost for football in India, a country with a passionate and growing fan base. Messi’s presence is expected to inspire a new generation of young footballers and further popularize the sport in the subcontinent.
“This is a dream come true for us,” said a young fan, visibly moved by seeing his idol in person. “Messi is an inspiration to millions, and having him here in India is a moment we will never forget.”
Messi’s tour will continue to other cities including Kolkata and Kochi, where more events are planned. The excitement and enthusiasm surrounding his visit are a testament to the universal appeal of the “beautiful game” and the enduring legacy of one of its greatest players.