Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has added an unexpected extension to his ongoing GOAT India Tour 2025.
After concluding the public events in Delhi on December 15, 2025, Messi, along with Inter Miami
teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, will head to Vantara, the sprawling wildlife rescue and conservation centre in Jamnagar.
Anant Ambani, founder of Vantara and Director at Reliance Industries Limited, will host the star footballers for a one-night stay at the facility. This private visit marks a serene end to Messi's whirlwind three-day tour across India, shifting from packed stadiums to one of the world's largest animal rehabilitation projects.
What is Vantara?
Vantara, spread over nearly 3,000 acres within the Reliance Jamnagar Refinery Complex, is known for its state-of-the-art animal hospital, research centre, and efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating thousands of animals. The centre has previously hosted high-profile visitors, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year.
The GOAT India Tour 2025 kicked off on December 13 in Kolkata, followed by stops in Hyderabad and Mumbai on December 14, before the finale in Delhi at Arun Jaitley Stadium on December 15.
In Delhi, Messi interacted with fans, participated in football drills with children, and met dignitaries including ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who gifted him an Indian cricket team jersey and a special bat, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and DDCA President Rohan Jaitley.
Messi, Suarez, De Paul to fly to Jamnagar Soon
The trio is expected to depart Delhi in the evening and arrive in Jamnagar for the overnight stay, wrapping up their India visit before heading back. This addition brings a touch of wildlife conservation to Messi's tour, blending sport with Anant Ambani's passion for animal welfare. Although the trio was expected to leave for Spain today, they will extend their stay in the country.
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