Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has officially confirmed Hyderabad as the fourth destination of his much-awaited ‘GOAT Tour of India 2025’. The Telangana capital has joined Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi on what is billed as one of the most star-studded football tours the country has ever seen. The visit confirms Messi’s return to India after more than a decade, as fans are getting ready to witness one of the greatest-ever footballers from close range.
Why Has Hyderabad Been Added To The GOAT Tour?
Hyderabad’s addition comes after an earlier cancellation of a proposed friendly in Kochi. Organisers, to ensure football fans in South India got an opportunity to see Messi, decided to add the Telangana capital as a replacement venue. With this addition, the tour now spans all major regions of India: east (Kolkata), south (Hyderabad), west (Mumbai), and north (New Delhi).
Excited Messi posted this on social media and thanked the fans in India for their love. He also confirmed that Hyderabad will be part of his journey, and this has already gone viral among eager supporters awaiting his arrival.
What to Expect from Messi’s Hyderabad Visit?
Messi will reach Hyderabad on December 13, immediately after he concludes the first leg of his tour in Kolkata on the same day. The event is expected either at Gachibowli Stadium or the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, though final venue details are likely to be announced shortly.
The events lined up for the Hyderabad stop include a celebrity football match, a football clinic for young athletes, a cultural and musical programme, and a special felicitation ceremony honouring Messi. This format strives to provide fans not just with the sight of the superstar but with an immersive football-themed experience with entertainment and grassroots engagement.
What Are The Highlights Of Messi’s GOAT Tour?
Messi’s ‘GOAT Tour of India 2025’ promises to be a multi-city sports-entertainment experience packed with football, fun, and fan engagement. The tour gets underway in Kolkata on December 13 with an opening ceremony, then travels to Hyderabad later the same evening, followed by Mumbai on December 14 and New Delhi on December 15.
Each city is scheduled to have its separate blend of football activities, concerts, meet-and-greet sessions, masterclasses for children, and special tribute events to celebrate Messi’s legacy. The initiative also aims to introduce world-class football experiences to Indian audiences and inspire younger players.
How is Messi’s Visit to India Significant?
Messi’s last visit to India was in 2011, as captain of Argentina for a friendly match at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. His return after so many years has generated massive buzz among the football fraternity across the nation. For many young fans, this would be the first time they get to see him live, a landmark sporting tour event.
Career Highlights of Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi has had one of the most brilliant careers in football history. With over 800 career goals, including multiple Ballon d’Or titles, Champions League triumphs, and league titles in Spain and France, Messi has consistently defined excellence across two decades.
Lionel Messi FIFA World Cup 2026 Win
Lionel Messi wins the World Cup and heads to the US. Messi’s crowning glory came in 2022 when he led Argentina to World Cup glory, delivering a career-defining display throughout the tournament. That victory elevated him to untouchable status in global football, inspiring millions worldwide.
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