Lionel Messi expressed optimism about the future of football in India and thanked fans for their “generous hospitality” following a whirlwind three-day tour that saw massive crowds gather across four cities to glimpse the Argentine icon.
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The 38-year-old, who extended his stay by a day to visit the Anant Ambani-founded Vantara wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation centre in Jamnagar, departed for his Miami base on Wednesday.
“I hope football has a bright future in India”, says Lionel Messi
Messi took to Instagram to share a one-minute highlight reel from the tour, capturing moments from his visits to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The video featured his interactions with Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor Khan, and several young footballers.
“What amazing visits to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Thank you for the warm reception, generous hospitality and all the feelings of love with which you surrounded me throughout my tour,” Messi wrote.
“I hope that football has a bright future in India.”
His message of hope comes at a challenging time for Indian football. The domestic season has been suspended due to the absence of a commercial partner, while the national team has struggled amid a string of disappointing results. Administrative disputes, currently under legal scrutiny, have further contributed to the ongoing uncertainty and policy paralysis.
Despite being one of the most recognisable sportspersons in the world, Messi did not play any competitive football during the tour. He was accompanied by close friend and Uruguay legend Luis Suarez, along with Argentina teammate Rodrigo de Paul.
Messi made stadium appearances at ticketed events in all four cities, beginning with Kolkata. However, the visit there turned chaotic when politicians and officials crowded around him, obstructing the view of fans who had paid substantial sums. The situation escalated into vandalism at the Salt Lake Stadium, forcing Messi to leave earlier than scheduled.
The remaining legs of the tour in Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi, unfolded smoothly, with Messi delighting fans by posing for photographs, demonstrating warm-up routines and briefly playing with young footballers.
“We carry all this love with us, and we will definitely return, hopefully one day to play a match or on another occasion but we will return to visit India,” Messi said after the final stop in Delhi.
