Lionel Messi arrives in Kolkata for India tour
Lionel Messi has arrived in Kolkata as part of his GOAT Tour of India 2025. The tour kicks off events at the Salt Lake Stadium (Yuva Bharati Krirangan) on December 13, marking his return to India after 14 years since a 2011 friendly match there.
Messi landed in Kolkata around 1:30 AM on December 13, accompanied by teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul. The day includes a VIP meet-and-greet from 9:30-10:30 AM, a virtual statue unveiling, and stadium activities with celebrities like Sourav Ganguly and Shah Rukh Khan before he heads to Hyderabad later.
The itinerary features fan interactions, a felicitation ceremony, concerts, and special appearances at the iconic venue. A 70-foot Messi statue will be unveiled virtually at Salt Lake Stadium.
The three-day tour continues to Hyderabad, Mumbai (Padel GOAT Cup), and New Delhi by December 15, blending football, culture, and celebrity matches. Some fan unrest was reported at the Kolkata event.
