Global football superstar Lionel Messi has concluded his widely celebrated visit to India, wrapping up a whirlwind tour in New Delhi that drew massive attention from fans across the country. The Argentine legend’s brief stay, though tightly scheduled, left a deep impression and further highlighted his immense popularity among Indian sports lovers.
Messi addressed thousands of cheering supporters at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday, December 15, where he expressed heartfelt appreciation for the reception he received throughout his time in the country. Speaking warmly, he suggested that he would welcome the opportunity to return to India in the future—ideally to play a match in front of his devoted Indian fan base.
The event in the nation’s capital marked the final stop of an intense itinerary that saw Messi travel through Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi within a matter of days. The tour, widely promoted as the “GOAT Tour,” combined public fan interactions with private engagements and was met with overwhelming enthusiasm at every destination.
Addressing the crowd in Spanish, Messi thanked Indian supporters for their passion and affection, noting that while he had always known about his popularity in India, experiencing it firsthand was truly special. He described the atmosphere as unforgettable and praised the hospitality extended to him and his entourage during their stay.
Messi said the experience, though short and demanding, was deeply rewarding. He reflected on how meaningful it was to feel the love he had long believed existed, adding that witnessing it in person exceeded all expectations. According to him, the warmth and effort shown by fans and organisers alike made the visit extraordinary, one he and his team would carry with them long after leaving.
Throughout the tour, Messi was accompanied by fellow Argentine stars Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. In New Delhi, the trio were welcomed by an energetic and patient crowd that filled the stadium with chants and applause, remaining upbeat despite delays before the players appeared.
During his appearance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Messi also had a brief interaction with Jay Shah, president of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Shah presented the football icon with a ticket to the India versus USA match at the 2026 T20 World Cup, symbolising a meeting of two global sporting worlds.
As the curtains closed on Messi’s India visit, fans were left with lasting memories of seeing one of football’s greatest players up close—and with renewed hope that his promise to return, perhaps as a player on the pitch, will one day become a reality.
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