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The Lionel Messi GOAT India tour concludes on Monday (December 15) as the final lap is set to be taken at the capital in Delhi.
Messi, along with Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, have been in the country for the last two days. After an eventful couple of days in Hyderabad and Mumbai, the juggernaut ends at the capital.
This whirlwind day at Arun Jaitley Stadium and beyond is set to captivate thousands, featuring cameos from cricket legends and dignitaries. While organizers have kept some details fluid, here's the most up-to-date, synthesized itinerary based on confirmed reports. All times are in IST and tentative, subject to last-minute adjustments for security and logistics.
Morning: Arrival and Initial Engagements
Messi's Delhi chapter begins with a seamless transition from his Mumbai
exploits, emphasizing rest and preparation amid the tour's packed schedule.
10:45 AM - 12:30 PM: Arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport
The Argentine superstar lands via private charter flight from Mumbai, greeted by a modest welcome contingent to avoid the fan frenzy seen in earlier cities. He proceeds directly to a luxury city hotel (likely The Leela Palace or Taj Mahal Hotel) for a brief 15-20 minute meet-and-greet with select media and local organizers.
11:30 AM: Gates Open at Arun Jaitley Stadium
Fans with tickets (priced from ₹4,720 to ₹5,900, now sold out) begin streaming into the iconic venue, home to Delhi Capitals IPL matches. Early birds can snag prime viewing spots for the afternoon spectacle.
Afternoon
Prime Minister's Meeting and Stadium Spectacle
The core of Messi's Delhi day unfolds in the early afternoon, merging diplomacy with football fervor. Reports suggest a possible overlap in scheduling, with the PM meeting slotted either pre- or post-stadium to optimize security.
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (Tentative): Private Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi
In a highlight of cultural exchange, Messi holds a 20-minute closed-door session at the Prime Minister's residence (7 Lok Kalyan Marg). Topics may touch on sports diplomacy, youth empowerment, and Messi's global philanthropy. This rare tÊte-À-tÊte underscores the tour's prestige, following similar nods from leaders in other cities.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Event Kickoff at Arun Jaitley Stadium
The public programme officially launches, with gates secured and attendees seated by 2:30 PM. Expect pulsating pre-event entertainment, including live music and highlight reels of Messi's career.
2:30 PM - 2:50 PM: Welcome Ceremony and Music
The stadium erupts as Messi makes his grand entrance, waving to the crowd amid cheers of "Messi! Messi!" A curated playlist of global anthems and Indian hits sets the tone, blending "Mucho Gusto" with Bollywood beats.
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM: Celebrity Exhibition Football Match
A star-studded 9v9 showdown featuring Indian celebrities and athletes, with Messi joining mid-game for flair passes and free-kick demos. Special guest: Cricket icon Virat Kohli, who may trade jerseys post-match, echoing his Kolkata appearance. This segment celebrates Indo-Argentine sporting camaraderie.
3:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Messi's Field Entry and Warm-Up
The GOAT steps onto the pitch for a ceremonial lap, interacting with fans via jumbotron shoutouts. Quick warm-ups segue into the youth segment.
3:45 PM - 4:20 PM: Children's Football Clinic and GOAT Cup Exhibition
Heartwarming highlight: Messi mentors 30 young talents from Minerva Academy's U-14/U-15 squads in a skills clinic, focusing on dribbling and shooting. Culminates in a mini 9v9 exhibition match, with Messi refereeing penalties. This initiative promotes grassroots football in India.
4:20 PM - 5:00 PM: Felicitation Ceremony and Penalty Shootout
On-stage honors for Messi, including a special "GOAT No. 10" jersey presentation. Fans participate in a lucky-draw penalty shootout against a Messi lookalike. Closing remarks emphasize unity through sport, with fireworks capping the session.
Messi will head back to the airport in the afternoon, as his outbound journey begins, leaving India mesmerized.
