Lionel Messi India Tour 2025: Full Schedule & Ticket Details

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, is set to return to India this December with the much-anticipated "GOAT Tour of India 2025." This event promises to be a spectacular celebration of football and fan engagement, spanning four major Indian cities—Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi—from December 13 to 15. Messi's return marks his first visit since 2011, when he played a friendly match in Kolkata, and it reflects not only his fondness for the country but also the growing football culture in India.

The GOAT Tour is designed as a blend of sporting events, concerts, fan interactions, and cultural festivities rather than competitive matches. The itinerary starts in Kolkata on December 13 at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium, where football fans can enjoy the "GOAT Concert" and "GOAT Cup." The GOAT Cup will be a special seven-a-side exhibition match featuring Messi alongside Indian sports legends such as Sourav Ganguly, Bhaichung Bhutia, and Leander Paes. Fans can expect a day filled with exciting football activities, concerts, and opportunities to meet their idols. Tickets for Kolkata events start at Rs 3,500.

After Kolkata, Messi will travel to Ahmedabad on the evening of December 13, where an exclusive event hosted by the Adani Foundation will be held. The focus will be on youth development and sports education, with Messi playing a central role in promoting these causes among budding athletes and sportspersons.

The football extravaganza continues on December 14 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The event here is dubbed the "Padel GOAT Cup," featuring star-studded participation from celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar, and MS Dhoni, alongside football masterclasses and food festivals. The evening will culminate with thrilling penalty shootouts and a musical concert, making it a day full of sport and entertainment. Tickets for the Mumbai event start at around Rs 7,000.

Finally, Messi's tour concludes on December 15 in New Delhi at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where fans will witness another GOAT Concert. The closing event will also feature a 7v7 celebrity football match, football masterclasses for young talents, and a grand musical performance. One of the highlights of the Delhi visit includes a scheduled meeting between Messi and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi—a symbol of the significance of this event both in sporting and diplomatic contexts.

This tour is more than a mere series of matches; it’s a broader celebration of football’s unifying power and Messi's enduring global appeal. India’s booming football scene, marked by the Indian Super League (ISL) and increasing grassroots participation, provides an ideal backdrop for such an international sports festival. Messi himself has described India as a "very special country" and expressed his excitement to engage with the new generation of football fans. For many Indian football enthusiasts, this offers a rare chance to witness a legend in action up close, fostering inspiration and passion for the game at all levels.

The significance of Messi’s visit also lies in its potential impact on football’s growth in India. By involving local players, celebrities, and fans across different regions, the GOAT Tour aims to strengthen grassroots support and raise the sport’s profile nationwide. With special events highlighting cultural exchanges and community well-being, the tour acts as a bridge connecting India’s rich sporting traditions with global football excellence.

In summary, Lionel Messi’s India Tour 2025 is set to be a landmark event blending sport, culture, and star power. From Kolkata’s historic Salt Lake Stadium to Mumbai’s vibrant Wankhede and Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, the tour promises an unforgettable experience. For football lovers and casual fans alike, this tour offers a chance to celebrate the beautiful game with one of its greatest ambassadors, deepen the connection between India and global football, and inspire future generations.