Lionel Messi’s extraordinary tour of India reaches its conclusion today in the nation’s capital, Delhi. The legendary Argentine footballer’s itinerary includes a momentous meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, capping off his impactful visit. The GOAT’s presence has captivated the nation, highlighting the global appeal of football.
Yesterday, Messi, accompanied by fellow stars Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, made a memorable appearance at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The event was attended by a galaxy of stars, from cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis to Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri and actors Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff. A touching exchange took place between Messi and Tendulkar, who swapped personalized gifts: Tendulkar presented Messi with his iconic Indian jersey, and Messi gifted Tendulkar a treasured World Cup ball.
Monday’s schedule for Messi in Delhi is filled with VVIP interactions. He is slated to arrive at 10:45 AM and will begin with a ‘Meet and Greet’ session at a local hotel. The centerpiece of his day will be a 20-minute meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Further engagements include meetings with Argentine Ambassador Mariano Agustin Caucino, Chief Justice Surya Kant, and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi.
The football maestro will then head to Arun Jaitley Stadium, arriving at 3:30 PM. A grand reception awaits him, featuring musical entertainment. He will witness a friendly football match contested by Indian celebrities and then greet the players. A specialized football clinic for 22 children is scheduled between 3:55 PM and 4:15 PM. The program concludes with Messi presenting two signed jerseys to Indian cricketers in appreciation for gifts he receives.