Argentine superstar Lionel Messi arrived in Kolkata on Saturday to start the GOAT India Tour 2025, setting off a wave of excitement that swept through the City of Joy before dawn.
The Argentine legend touched down after travelling from Miami via Dubai, and even at the late hour, thousands of fans packed the airport perimeter for a glimpse of the World Cup winner.
Crowds chanted his name, waved Argentina flags and climbed onto barricades as police tightened a heavy security ring around the terminal.
“There’s a great atmosphere of joy that Messi is coming to India after 14 years,” tour organiser Satadru Dutta said. “Football’s connection to India is growing again. Never before have so many sponsors come to Indian football.”
Supporters who rushed to the airport long before his flight landed said the moment felt surreal. “We have been waiting for two hours. If needed, we will wait for even four. We can’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” one fan told ANI.
Another called the night “truly magical,” adding, “He’s a magician, the GOAT. We’re here just to catch a glimpse. Love you, Messi.”
Messi will travel to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi during the three-day tour.
Messi’s Kolkata schedule begins with a private meet-and-greet from 9.30 to 10.30 am, an exclusive window for select guests and organisers.
He will then switch online to virtually inaugurate a statue dedicated to him, a gesture marking the city’s deep affection for the World Cup winner.
The highlight for most fans comes later in the day.
Messi is scheduled to take part in a friendly match at Yuva Bharati Stadium, where thousands are expected to pack the stands. A fan interaction programme at the same venue will close out his Kolkata engagements.
Access to the events was offered through the District app, with tickets starting at about Rs 4,500. Demand was high, and most categories were sold out quickly as Kolkata prepared for one of its most high-profile football days in years.
Source - India Today
The Argentine legend touched down after travelling from Miami via Dubai, and even at the late hour, thousands of fans packed the airport perimeter for a glimpse of the World Cup winner.
Crowds chanted his name, waved Argentina flags and climbed onto barricades as police tightened a heavy security ring around the terminal.
“There’s a great atmosphere of joy that Messi is coming to India after 14 years,” tour organiser Satadru Dutta said. “Football’s connection to India is growing again. Never before have so many sponsors come to Indian football.”
Supporters who rushed to the airport long before his flight landed said the moment felt surreal. “We have been waiting for two hours. If needed, we will wait for even four. We can’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” one fan told ANI.
Another called the night “truly magical,” adding, “He’s a magician, the GOAT. We’re here just to catch a glimpse. Love you, Messi.”
Messi will travel to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi during the three-day tour.
Messi’s Kolkata schedule begins with a private meet-and-greet from 9.30 to 10.30 am, an exclusive window for select guests and organisers.
He will then switch online to virtually inaugurate a statue dedicated to him, a gesture marking the city’s deep affection for the World Cup winner.
The highlight for most fans comes later in the day.
Messi is scheduled to take part in a friendly match at Yuva Bharati Stadium, where thousands are expected to pack the stands. A fan interaction programme at the same venue will close out his Kolkata engagements.
Access to the events was offered through the District app, with tickets starting at about Rs 4,500. Demand was high, and most categories were sold out quickly as Kolkata prepared for one of its most high-profile football days in years.
Source - India Today
