‘We will definitely return’: Lionel Messi reflects on whirlwind GOAT India Tour visit

Lionel Messi bid farewell to India following the conclusion of his three-day tour.

Inter Miami CF forward and footballing icon Lionel Messi wrapped up the Delhi leg of the GOAT India Tour 2025 with an emotional address to fans at Arun Jaitley Stadium. The World Cup-winning star thanked them for what he described as an unforgettable and overwhelming show of affection over his three-day visit to India.

Lionel Messi’s brief but high-profile visit to India concluded a tightly controlled, multi-city tour that drew global attention and renewed debate about access, fan engagement and the growing commercial pull of elite football in the country. The Argentine star, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, made appearances in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi as part of the tour.

Lionel Messi shared his thoughts about the ‘beautiful’ Indian experience

The Tour which was positioned as a celebration of Messi’s legacy rather than a competitive sporting event, delivered on it final two days after a disappointing first day. Speaking on the final day in Delhi, the eight-time Ballon D’Or winner said the experience exceeded expectations despite its short duration.

He stated, “I just want to thank everyone for the love and affection during these days in India. In fact, it was a truly beautiful experience for us to be able to share it. Although it was short and intense, it was wonderful to receive all this love that I knew existed, but receiving it directly was amazing.”

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A ‘crazy experience’ with a promise of return

Lionel Messi acknowledged the deep love and respect from his fans in his remarks, calling the reception “a crazy experience” and praising fans for the warmth they showed throughout the visit. He also hinted at unfinished business and teased a future return in the future to India.

He stated, “We carry all this love with us, and we will definitely return, hopefully one day to play a match or on another occasion.” While no future fixtures were announced, the promise resonated with Indian fans eager to see elite football played on home soil.

End of a roller coaster three-day tour

The tour included closed-door meetings with political leaders, sponsors and select guests, as well as ceremonial events at iconic venues. The event structure sparked criticism from sections of the Indian football community, who questioned why one of the world’s most popular athletes in Lionel Messi was largely kept away from the general public.

While organizers defended the itinerary, citing security concerns and logistical constraints tied to Messi’s global stature, the scenes outside venues told a different story. Crowds gathered in large numbers hoping for a glimpse of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, underscoring the depth of Lionel Messi’s fan base in India, a country where football continues to compete with cricket for mainstream attention.

For many supporters, the tour symbolized India’s growing relevance on the global football map, even without a match being played. As the GOAT India Tour 2025 came to a close, it left behind a mix of admiration, frustration and hope — and a clear message from Lionel Messi himself that this visit may not be his last.

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