Counted among the greatest footballers in history, Lionel Messi, reached Delhi as part of the 'GOAT Tour to India 2025', following visits to Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. On December 15 (Monday), Messi participated in an event held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The stadium was packed with fans eager to see Messi in person. Messi himself appeared overwhelmed by the affection from fans. Alongside Messi, Argentine star footballer Rodrigo De Paul and Uruguayan legend Luis Suarez were also present.
At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Lionel Messi met with Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Rohan Jaitley, President of the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA). During this meeting, Jay Shah presented Messi with the Indian cricket team's Number-10 jersey. Meanwhile, Luis Suarez received the Number-9 jersey, and Rodrigo De Paul was handed the Number-7 jersey by Shah.
The ICC Chairman also gave Lionel Messi a cricket bat signed by Indian cricketers, adding to the special occasion. Shah extended an invitation to Messi for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, gifting him a ticket to the India vs USA match.
I Will Return to India: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi expressed, 'I knew we received a lot of love from India, but experiencing it firsthand was entirely different. What you all did for us over these few days was astonishing, almost like a whirlwind. Thank you once again for all your love. We will definitely return to India, perhaps to play a match or for another occasion. But one thing is for sure, we will proudly return.'
Lionel Messi was seen playing football with young players on the field, possibly the stars of a football academy. Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul also joined Messi in the fun. As Messi played football, joy resonated throughout the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Messi met with young players from Minerva Academy and had pictures taken with them.
Lionel Messi arrives in Delhi as part of the 'GOAT Tour to India 2025'.
Jay Shah presents Lionel Messi with Team India jersey and cricket bat.
