Lionel Messi winds up G.O.A.T. India Tour with Delhi leg; fans in frenzy

Lionel Messi's G.O.A.T. India Tour concluded in Delhi, leaving fans ecstatic after a difficult beginning in Kolkata. The final event saw thousands gather at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, including Indian celebrities and dignitaries, all eager to witness the legendary footballer in action.

The Delhi stop provided the desired ending to the highly anticipated tour, which had faced initial setbacks during its Kolkata leg on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

Attendees reveled in the opportunity to host such a globally recognized athlete. Messi addressed the crowd briefly in Spanish, saying, “Gracias Delhi! Hasta pronto,” which evoked a strong sense of admiration from the audience.

Upon his arrival, Messi greeted the spectators with a lap of the ground, observing the conclusion of a 7x7 celebrity match. Fans, many sporting Argentina's blue and white jersey with the number 10, continuously chanted his name. He waved to the stands, a gesture he was unable to fully execute in Kolkata due to excessive crowding by politicians and their entourages at the Salt Lake Stadium on December 13, 2025.

During his tour of the venue, which saw an attendance of approximately 25,000, Messi was joined by his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, with whom he kicked balls into the stands. He also took the time to acknowledge and congratulate the Minerva Academy football team.

The event was specifically designed around Messi, and he fulfilled his role perfectly. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, ICC Chairman Jay Shah, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley, and former Indian football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia were among those who had the opportunity to meet Messi towards the end of the 30-minute program.

Earlier in the day, Messi's arrival in Delhi was significantly delayed due to adverse weather conditions in Mumbai. His charter flight, originally scheduled to land around 10:45 a.m. after the second day of his three-day India visit, was delayed by fog. He eventually landed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport around 2:30 p.m. and proceeded directly to the Leela Palace Hotel for a private meet-and-greet.