Football icon Lionel Messi wraps up his India tour in Delhi, greeting fans, meeting officials, and pledging to return to play an official match in the country.
Lionel Messi India Tour Ends in Delhi, Football Legend Promises to Return
Lionel Messi India Tour came to a memorable end in New Delhi as the Argentine football icon thanked Indian fans for their overwhelming love and promised to return to the country to play a match in the future.
Despite a delayed arrival due to fog, Messi received a grand welcome in the national capital, marking the final stop of his historic multi-city visit to India.
Lionel Messi India Tour: Grand Welcome at Arun Jaitley Stadium
A major highlight of the Lionel Messi India Tour was his visit to the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where thousands of fans gathered to witness the football legend in person.
Accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi took a lap around the ground, kicked footballs into the stands, and interacted warmly with supporters.
The trio also spent time with young children on the field, signing autographs, playing light games, and posing for photographs—creating unforgettable moments for Indian football fans.
Messi Thanks Fans During Delhi Felicitation Ceremony
Speaking during a special felicitation ceremony, Messi expressed heartfelt gratitude for the affection he received throughout the India tour.
“I want to thank everyone for the love and affection during these days in India. It was truly a beautiful experience for us,” Messi said.
He added that although the visit was short, the warmth from Indian fans made it extremely special.
“We Will Definitely Return” – Messi on Playing in India
Ending his address on a high note, Messi reassured fans that this would not be his last visit.
“We take all this love with us, and we will definitely return—hopefully one day to play a match. But we will surely come back to India,” Messi said.
The statement has sparked excitement among Indian football followers, who are now eagerly waiting to see Messi play on Indian soil.
Meetings with Indian Leaders During Lionel Messi India Tour
During his stay in Delhi, Messi met Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and ICC Chairman Jay Shah.
Jay Shah presented Indian cricket team jerseys to Messi, Suárez, and De Paul, while Messi received a specially framed cricket bat as a souvenir—symbolizing the cultural exchange between football and cricket.
Other Cities Visited on Lionel Messi India Tour
Apart from Delhi, the Lionel Messi India Tour included visits to:
Kolkata
Hyderabad
Mumbai
The tour has been widely regarded as a landmark moment for Indian football, further boosting the sport’s popularity in the country.


