Lionel Messi’s long-awaited return to India after more than a decade sparked extraordinary scenes in Kolkata on December 12, as thousands of fans turned out to welcome the Argentine superstar, reaffirming his enduring appeal across the country.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner arrived in the city under heavy security, but the sheer scale of the crowd forced authorities to alter his planned route. Fans lined roads, gathered outside venues and waited for hours, many waving Argentine flags and wearing Messi jerseys, hoping to catch even a fleeting glimpse of the football legend. This marked Messi’s first visit to India since 2011.
The excitement reached its peak at the Salt Lake Stadium, where Messi featured in a friendly match that saw Argentina secure a narrow 1–0 victory over Venezuela. The stadium complex witnessed unprecedented enthusiasm, with supporters chanting his name continuously, creating an atmosphere more akin to a festival than a routine sporting fixture.
Many fans said they had arrived early in the morning and were prepared to wait as long as it took. For several, the chance to see Messi in person was described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with emotions running high as the football icon finally took the field.
Messi’s visit forms part of the GOAT India Tour 2025, a multi-city programme celebrating his illustrious career and global influence. After Kolkata, the tour moves to Hyderabad on December 13, followed by stops in Mumbai on December 14 and Delhi on December 15.
Organisers say the nationwide itinerary reflects Messi’s massive fan base across India, turning his visit into a countrywide celebration of one of football’s most iconic figures.
