Messi on GOAT Tour Meets Minerva Academy; Jay Shah Presents World Cup Ticket in Delhi

Lionel Messi’s final stop on the G.O.A.T India Tour transformed New Delhi into a football carnival on Monday, as the Argentine icon made a short but electrifying appearance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

After a weather-related delay, Messi arrived in the capital in the afternoon and checked in at The Leela Palace before heading to the stadium, where thousands of fans had already filled the stands. Dressed in Argentina jerseys and waving banners, supporters created a charged atmosphere long before the World Cup winner stepped onto the field.

Build-up and action

Proceedings began with a friendly between Celebrity Messi All Stars and Minerva Messi All Stars, though the contest quickly turned one-sided. The Minerva Academy youngsters dominated the match, registering a commanding 6–0 victory, as the football on display played second fiddle to the anticipation surrounding Messi’s arrival.

The wait ended when Messi emerged from the tunnel alongside Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, triggering a deafening roar from the crowd as the superstar greeted fans at his final Indian stop.

On-field moments and interactions

Messi’s time on the pitch was brief but memorable. He shared relaxed kickabouts with young players, posed for photographs, exchanged smiles with Suárez and De Paul, and sent footballs into the stands for fans. He also interacted with Minerva Academy players and met former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia, who was present at the venue.

Off-field meetings and farewell

Off the field, Messi met ICC chairman Jay Shah, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and DDCA president Rohan Jaitley. During the interaction, Shah presented Messi with Indian cricket team jerseys, a signed bat, and a ticket to the upcoming T20 World Cup, highlighting a symbolic crossover between cricket and football.

Before departing, Messi addressed the crowd and thanked Indian fans for the warmth he received during the tour.

“Thank you for all the affection you have shown us in India. It was a unique experience for us,” Messi said. “Although it was intense and very short, feeling this love firsthand was incredible. We hope to return again someday.”

Messi’s stay at the Arun Jaitley Stadium lasted around 30 minutes, but it was enough to leave fans buzzing as the G.O.A.T India Tour came to a memorable conclusion.