Widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, Argentina's World Cup winner Lionel Messi boasts of a huge fan following across India.
Citing the massive fanbase in the country, the former FC Barcelona star is now set to pay a visit to India at the end of 2025.
After Argentina lifted their second consecutive Copa America in 2024, the Kerala government had promised to bring the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner to India.
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However, after the friendlies in Kerala were cancelled earlier in the summer, the TOI has reported that the footballer will now visit three different venues in India, including the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
In this article, TSN explores the schedule for the Argentina and Inter Miami captain's visit to India.
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When is Lionel Messi coming to India?
Messi's visit to India was confirmed by the organizers, Wizcraft, for December 13 to 15. The legend will visit the Wankhede Stadium on December 14, followed by expected trips to Delhi and Kolkata.
"Yes, Messi is set to visit the Wankhede Stadium for an event on December 14. The organizers of the event have sought permission for the event, which will be ticketed. Their request was discussed by the Mumbai Cricket Association's Apex Council, and the permission was granted," a reliable MCA official told.
According to the report, a couple of star cricketers might also grace the event in Mumbai. However, the further details about the names of the cricketers and how the event shall pan out are yet to be known.
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In Kolkata, he will be felicitated by the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a special event at another iconic venue, Eden Gardens.
During his Kolkata stop, the 38-year-old will conduct a football workshop for children and launch a football clinic.
To commemorate his presence, a special seven-a-side tournament, termed as the GOAT CUP will be played at the Eden Gardens.
As of August 1, the event timings for his trip to India have yet to be revealed by the organizers.
Has Messi visited India before?
Yes, Messi has played in Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium in 2011 when Argentina faced Venezuela in a friendly match 2011.
After winning two back-to-back Copa Americas with Argentina in 2021 and 2024, Messi will be heading to the World Cup in 2026 as the defending champions as strong contenders again.
The South American country has already qualified for the tournament with 11 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses in the qualifiers with 2 matches to go.
With 874 goals and 388 career assists, he is marching towards the 900 goals and 400 assist mark with every match in the Major League Soccer.