Football icon Lionel Messi’s arrival in Mumbai for his GOAT India Tour 2025 has ignited unprecedented excitement among Indian fans, despite controversy surrounding previous tour stops. The Argentine legend, fresh from leading his country to World Cup glory in 2022, received an overwhelmingly warm reception in Hyderabad before proceeding to Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium.
Indian supporters expressed extraordinary enthusiasm for the opportunity to witness the global football superstar. Vedansh, a dedicated Messi fan from Pune, revealed his long-standing admiration: ‘I began following football around 2012-13 during the peak Messi-Ronaldo debates. For me, it was always Messi—his playing style captivated me, and the 2022 World Cup victory cemented his legendary status.’
The emotional connection runs deep among Indian fans. Abhinav, another devoted supporter, shared his profound anticipation: ‘Seeing Messi has always been my dream. I’m so excited I might actually cry if I get to see him in person.’ Many fans undertook significant journeys, including three-hour train rides from Pune, demonstrating their commitment to witnessing the football genius.
However, the tour’s Kolkata segment concluded disastrously when frustrated fans resorted to vandalism after Messi’s premature departure. Attendees who paid premium prices expressed anger over poor event management and alleged that VIPs and politicians monopolized Messi’s attention, preventing ordinary fans from even glimpsing their hero. The situation escalated to the point where police intervention was required to disperse the crowd.
In response to the Kolkata incident, promoter Satadru Dutta was arrested and remanded to 14 days police custody by the Bidhannagar Court. Meanwhile, Messi demonstrated his humanitarian side in Hyderabad, engaging in memorable interactions with children at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium as part of his UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador role.
The GOAT India Tour 2025 will conclude with a final event in Delhi on Monday, marking the end of Messi’s historic visit to the subcontinent.