Lionel Messi brought his GOAT Tour to a close in Delhi on Monday, December 15, 2025. The Argentine superstar took a lap of honour at Arun Jaitley Stadium. He greeted chanting supporters, kicked footballs into the crowd, took selfies, and played briefly with children. Accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi appeared in good spirits during the finale of the four-city promotional tour.
The event passed smoothly under heavy security. This contrasted sharply with the chaotic opening in Kolkata two days earlier. Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia joined Messi on stage. Messi signed Argentine jerseys for Bhutia and his family. ICC chairman Jay Shah presented the visitors with an Indian jersey and a ticket to the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Messi addressed the crowd in Spanish. He thanked fans for their support. “It was beautiful to receive all the love and support. I knew it was there, but to receive it first-hand was, well, amazing.” He added that he would “definitely be back”.
Messi in Delhi: Highlights from the Finale
Fans packed the cricket venue despite hazardous air quality in the capital. PM2.5 levels exceeded 300 micrograms per cubic metre. Many wore Argentina jerseys and waved flags. Supporters ignored health warnings to catch a glimpse of the 38-year-old World Cup winner.
Messi’s flight from Mumbai arrived late due to fog. This shortened the programme. Yet the Delhi leg avoided the unrest seen earlier in the Lionel Messi India tour. Colourful confetti fell as the players waved goodbye.
The promotional tour visited Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi over three days. It marked Messi’s first India trip since 2011. Organisers billed it as the GOAT Tour. It featured ticketed public appearances and interactions with local celebrities.
In Mumbai, Messi met cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. In Hyderabad, meetings included opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. The Kolkata leg turned turbulent. Fans paid high ticket prices but saw little of Messi due to tight security. Disappointed supporters vandalised Salt Lake Stadium. Police later arrested the local organiser.
Subsequent stops proceeded without incident. Fans across cities expressed excitement online and in interviews. The tour highlighted football’s growing appeal in a cricket-dominated nation ranked 142nd in FIFA standings.
Why the Messi Delhi Visit Matters in South Asia
Football enjoys passionate followings in parts of South Asia. Particularly in India’s West Bengal and Kerala states. Yet the sport struggles for mainstream attention against cricket. Messi’s visit drew massive crowds. It underscored the region’s enthusiasm for global football icons.
The smooth Messi Delhi visit offered a positive close after early controversy. It also showcased India’s ability to host international stars when security measures work effectively. For millions of young fans, seeing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner in person could inspire greater interest in the game.
What’s Next After the Lionel Messi India Tour
Messi returns to club duties with Inter Miami. He recently won his second consecutive MLS Most Valuable Player award. He will lead Argentina’s World Cup title defence next year. His promise to return to India has already sparked anticipation among supporters.
The Lionel Messi Delhi appearance leaves lasting memories for thousands who braved pollution and crowds. It reinforces the footballer’s global appeal and India’s growing connection to the world’s most popular sport.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 16th, 2025
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