Legendary footballer Lionel Messi is all set to visit India later on this year for events that will celebrate his illustrious career, as per reports. Earlier, reports had cited the Kerala sports minister claiming that the Argentina icon was scheduled to arrive in the state for a friendly match in October. However, while that remains unconfirmed, Messi is now reportedly set to visit three cities across India – Mumbai, Kolkata and Delhi.

Messi to tour India in December 2025

As per Times of India, a source from the Mumbai Cricket Association confirmed that Messi is set to visit the iconic Wankhede stadium on December 14 for an event. A couple of superstar cricketers are also expected to attend the event. The source added that Messi’s visit to Mumbai will be a ticketed event and that the permission was granted after being discussed in the MCA’s Apex Council meeting.

“Yes, Messi is set to visit the Wankhede Stadium for an event on December 14. The organisers of the event (Wizcraft) have sought permission for the event, which will be ticketed. Their request was discussed by the Mumbai Cricket Association’s Apex Council in a meeting recently and the permission was granted,” a MCA source told the publication.

Further, the report states that Messi is set to visit the three Indian cities between December 13-15. The legend will reportedly be felicitated by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee at an event at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

“During his stay in Kolkata, Messi will conduct a football workshop for children and launch a football clinic. A seven-a-side tournament called the “GOAT CUP” will also be organised in his honour at the Eden Gardens.” the report added.

Messi last visited India in 2011 when Argentina took on Venezuela. The tie between Argentina and Venezuela ended in a goalless draw.