Lionel Messi tour of India draws crowds, criticism and contrasts
Lionel Messi arrived in India as the central figure in a tour designed to celebrate his career. Instead, the visit has highlighted how quickly excitement can turn to frustration when expectations, access and organisation collide.
Public events meant to showcase the Argentine star were marred by disorder, while private appearances revealed the extraordinary level of influence and wealth that continues to surround one of football’s most famous figures.
Kolkata event turns chaotic
Trouble surfaced during the opening stop in Kolkata. Indian news outlets reported that fans at Salt Lake Stadium grew agitated after Messi appeared briefly and was kept behind layers of security.
His on-stage appearance lasted around 20 minutes, according to local coverage. Soon afterward, parts of the crowd threw objects, damaged seating and entered the pitch, forcing organisers to intervene as sections of the venue were vandalised.
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Several reports said frustration was intensified by the fact that meaningful access to Messi was largely limited to invited guests, including politicians and business leaders, rather than ticket-holding fans.
Cost and criticism follow tour
Tickets for a lap of honour and the unveiling of a statue in Messi’s likeness were priced at about £100. Commentators and fans questioned whether the pricing and structure of the events excluded much of the broader public.
As the tour continued through Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi, criticism spread online and in regional media, with organisers facing questions about crowd control and the promises made to supporters.
A very different reception in private
Away from public venues, Messi’s experience contrasted sharply. During his visit, Anant Ambani the son of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani presented him with an ultra-rare Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon “Asia Edition,” valued at approximately £825,000. Only 12 examples of the watch are believed to exist worldwide.
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Ambani also hosted Messi at Vantara, a wildlife rescue and conservation centre he founded. Indian media reported that the visit included guided tours and close interaction with animals, accompanied by a formal ceremonial welcome.
Messi was joined by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul and greeted with traditional folk music, floral offerings and a ceremonial aarti.
Rituals, reputation and wealth
According to India Today, Messi later took part in a Maha Aarti at a temple, participating in Ambe Mata Puja, Ganesh Puja, Hanuman Puja and Shiv Abhishek. The rituals included prayers for peace and unity.
The events have also drawn attention to Messi’s financial standing. Reuters has reported that he is currently the world’s second highest-paid footballer, with annual earnings of about £96.7 million, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo.
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Beyond his playing income, Messi earns substantial revenue through endorsement deals with Adidas, Apple TV and Konami, and commands a social media audience of more than 500 million followers a reach that helps explain both the fervour surrounding his visit and the disappointment when expectations were not met.
Sources: Reuters, India Today
