Mumbai: The 38-year-old World Cup winner was seen arriving in Mumbai earlier in the day and was later captured at the Taj Hotel, ahead of the Mumbai leg of his much-anticipated India tour. Messi reached Brabourne Stadium by mid-afternoon, marking the official start of Day 2 activities, which are scheduled to begin around 3:30 pm.
According to the itinerary, Messi is participating in the Padel GOAT Cup at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) at Brabourne Stadium, followed by a celebrity football match at 4:00 pm. The schedule also includes a high-profile fashion show for charity later in the evening, with another major event slated to begin around 5:00 pm, adding to the buzz surrounding his presence in the city.
The GOAT India Tour 2025 moved to Mumbai after earlier stops in Kolkata and Hyderabad. The tour’s opening event in Kolkata was marred by controversy, with allegations of large-scale mismanagement leading to chaotic scenes at the venue. Messi subsequently travelled to Hyderabad, where he featured in an exhibition football match attended by Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was also present at the event and was seen interacting with the Inter Miami star.
Mumbai marks the next major chapter of the tour, with Messi also expected to be part of a showcase event later at the Wankhede Stadium. As fans gather in large numbers, security has been tightened across venues, and organisers are keen to ensure smooth conduct following the disruptions witnessed earlier in the tour.
Lionel Messi has arrived in Mumbai for the India leg of his tour, featuring a celebrity match and charity fashion show. After a controversial start in Kolkata, the tour continues with events at Brabourne Stadium and Wankhede Stadium. Security is heightened as fans eagerly await the football legend's participation in various activities.