Thousands Brave December Chill to Welcome Messi
Kolkata witnessed an extraordinary scene as fans braved the winter cold and waited past midnight to welcome Lionel Messi, the Argentine football icon, for his three-day, four-city GOAT India Tour 2025. The Barcelona legend touched down at 2:26 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, igniting a frenzy among supporters. Gate 4 at the international arrivals became a sea of chants, flags, and flashing cameras as fans scrambled for even a fleeting glimpse of their idol.
A VIP Arrival Under Tight Security
Escorted by heavy security, Messi entered the city alongside long-time strike partner Luis Suárez and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul. Despite the excitement, many fans were left disappointed as he was swiftly taken through a back entrance to the Hyatt Regency Hotel around 3:30 a.m. The hotel lobby transformed into a mini Argentine fan zone, with supporters waving flags, wearing jerseys, and shouting his name well past dawn. Room 730 was sealed off for Messi’s stay, with some fans even booking nearby rooms to stay as close as possible.
Fans’ Dedication Knows No Bounds
Die-hard supporters, including families and schoolchildren, camped at the hotel overnight. Krish Gupta, a young Cristiano Ronaldo fan, joined his family to catch a glimpse of Messi. “I just want to tell him to play football with me. If not, I’ll go to the gym tomorrow morning to see him. I have my autograph book ready,” he shared, reflecting the devotion and excitement of fans of all ages.
Historic Significance of the Visit
Satadru Dutta, the sole promoter of the tour, emphasized the historic nature of Messi’s visit. “In 2011, he visited as a captain, but now he comes as a World Cup winner and eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient. This is a celebration for the city,” Dutta said. He highlighted the potential impact on Indian football, noting the unprecedented level of sponsorship and the unveiling of a first-of-its-kind Messi statue in Kolkata.
Security and Celebration: City on High Alert
The city was on high alert ahead of Messi’s arrival, with increased police presence, sniffer dogs, and continuous surveillance. Fans braved the winter chill outside the airport and hotel, waving flags, chanting, and expressing overwhelming emotions. The Hyatt Regency became the epicenter of celebrations, with vendors selling Messi merchandise and fans donning wigs and Argentine colours to mark the occasion.
GOAT India Tour 2025: Itinerary Highlights
Messi’s Kolkata schedule included a sponsors’ meet-and-greet, a tribute programme at Salt Lake Stadium, and a “Master Class with Messi” for children. Luis Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan joined the festivities. A 70-foot statue unveiling at Lake Town added grandeur to the citywide celebrations.
Following Kolkata, Messi’s tour will take him to Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. Key highlights include exhibition matches, football clinics, philanthropic events, and a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, culminating in a nine-a-side celebrity match in the capital.
Kolkata’s Rich Football Legacy
Kolkata has a long-standing connection with football legends. From Pele’s 1977 appearance with New York Cosmos to Diego Maradona’s unforgettable visits in 2008 and 2017, the city has witnessed several iconic moments. German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, Colombian star René Higuita, and Uruguay’s Diego Forlán have also thrilled Kolkata fans in past decades. Messi’s return in 2025 cements the city’s status as a football haven.
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