According to reports, this marks Messi's return to India after a gap of 14 years.
Messi India Tour: Argentine superstar footballer Lionel Messi arrived in Kolkata late last night as part of his three-day, four-city GOAT India Tour 2025. The football icon is scheduled to visit the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata today, where fans have already begun gathering in large numbers.
Messi will virtually unveil his 70-foot statue from Salt Lake stadium, with West Bengal Minister Sujit Bose and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan present at the event, according to News agency PTI.
Later in the day, the former Barcelona star will travel to Hyderabad, Telangana, where he is scheduled to visit Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal for about an hour under Z+ security cover. During the visit, Messi will take part in a social initiative and is also expected to play a short exhibition match lasting around 15 to 20 minutes.
Ahead of Messi’s Hyderabad visit, authorities have put extensive security arrangements in place. Fans have been urged to use public transportation to avoid traffic congestion around the stadium. Officials have also clarified that entry will be strictly ticket-based, with tickets sold online only. No tickets will be available at the venue, and the public has been advised not to visit without valid passes.
Messi is expected to arrive at the Hyderabad stadium between 7 pm and 7:30 pm, while musical performances will begin from 5:30 pm onwards. The football legend will also interact with children during the event.
According to reports, this marks Messi’s return to India after a gap of 14 years.
Meanwhile, scenes of excitement were witnessed at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium as fans arrived in large numbers to welcome the football icon. The city was drenched in blue and white, reflecting the colours of Argentina, as supporters united to celebrate the arrival of Lionel Messi for his much-anticipated India tour.
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