Messi Concludes India Tour with Enthusiastic Fans and Chaos

Lionel Messi wrapped up an exciting four-city tour of India on December 15, 2023, culminating in a vibrant appearance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The event attracted a near-capacity crowd, who cheered enthusiastically during Messi’s half-hour engagement. This visit marked a significant moment for the world’s most populous nation, as fans temporarily set aside their passion for cricket to embrace a wave of “Messi-mania” following his arrival late on December 14 in Kolkata.

The tour was not without its challenges. An event in Kolkata turned chaotic when frustrated fans tore up seats and rushed onto the pitch after local politicians disrupted the proceedings. In the aftermath, the chief organiser faced detention by police authorities. Despite this turmoil, Messi’s subsequent events in Hyderabad and Mumbai proceeded smoothly.

Fans Celebrate Messi’s Visit

In New Delhi, Messi and his Inter Miami teammates, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, engaged with the crowd by tossing a ball into the stands and participating in kickabouts with local children at a venue known for hosting international cricket matches. “It was a dream-come-true moment for us to watch him in flesh and blood,” said local fan Kaustav Ghosh, who attended the event with his family, all wearing Argentina jerseys. The Ghosh family had previously travelled to Russia for the 2018 FIFA World Cup but were unable to secure tickets for any Argentina matches. “At least we saw Messi here,” Ghosh added, expressing the thrill of witnessing the football legend up close.

In a gesture that connected the worlds of football and cricket, Messi, Suarez, and De Paul received Indian cricket team jerseys from Jay Shah, chairman of the International Cricket Council. They also received tickets for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka next year.

Contrast with Indian Football Landscape

The excitement surrounding Messi’s visit stands in stark contrast to the current state of Indian football. The national team is ranked a lowly 142nd in FIFA’s world rankings, and the Indian Super League finds itself in a state of uncertainty. The All India Football Federation has struggled to secure a new commercial partner following the expiration of a 10-year deal with its previous sponsor.

As Messi’s tour concluded, the celebrations in New Delhi highlighted the deep admiration for the sport and its stars, even as challenges continue to loom over the future of football in India. The enthusiasm surrounding Messi’s presence serves as a reminder of the potential for growth and excitement within the sport, should the right conditions and support be established.