Messi’s India Tour Draws Huge Crowds, Sparks Football Frenzy

Kolkata/Mumbai — Lionel Messi’s much anticipated visit to India delivered a wave of excitement across two major cities, drawing massive crowds and reigniting national interest in football. The Argentine icon’s tour was marked by fanfare, celebrity appearances, and moments that underscored both the passion of Indian supporters and the global reach of the sport.

Messi arrived first in Kolkata, where thousands of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the World Cup winning captain. The atmosphere turned briefly chaotic after his short public appearance, as some fans threw chairs and bottles onto the field. Security personnel intervened swiftly to restore order, allowing the event to conclude without serious incident.

The football star then traveled to Mumbai, where his presence was felt across the city. At the Cricket Club of India (CCI), Messi took part in a padel exhibition match, drawing spectators eager to see the global superstar in action in a different sporting format. He later featured in a seven a side celebrity football match at the Wankhede Stadium, alongside Bollywood personalities and Indian sports icons, further amplifying public interest.

Beyond the pitch, Messi attended a private charity fashion show in Mumbai, where memorabilia from Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph were auctioned for charitable causes. The event highlighted his off field influence and commitment to engaging with fans and philanthropic efforts.

Throughout the tour, Messi was widely praised for his humility and willingness to interact with supporters. Fans and local celebrities alike described the experience as memorable, with many young football enthusiasts citing him as a role model. Observers noted that the visit has helped shine a spotlight on football in India, inspiring renewed enthusiasm among aspiring players.

Analysts say the tour also reinforced India’s growing importance as a global football market. With one of the world’s largest sports audiences, the country’s response to Messi’s visit demonstrated football’s deep and expanding following beyond traditional strongholds.

As Messi departs India, fans are left with lasting memories of a rare encounter with one of the game’s greatest figures. His visit served as a reminder of football’s power to unite people across cultures and borders, and its impact is expected to resonate within Indian football circles for years to come.