Messi’s ‘GOAT Tour’ begins with unveiling of 21-metre statue in Kolkata

Lionel Messi is returning to India in spectacular fashion. The Argentine icon will kick off his three-day India “GOAT Tour” this weekend with the virtual unveiling of a 21-metre iron statue in Kolkata, a tribute that has already sent fans into overdrive.

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The statue, depicting Messi lifting the World Cup trophy, stands as one of the tallest athlete monuments in the country. It is the centrepiece of a nationwide celebration that will take the 38-year-old Inter Miami forward to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, drawing massive fan attention long before he lands.

A Giant Tribute for a Global Icon

Kolkata has transformed into a festival ground ahead of Messi’s arrival. A special “Hola Messi” fan zone has been created, featuring a life-sized replica of the superstar sitting on a throne, alongside an immersive recreation of his Miami home filled with mannequin versions of his family.

The massive statue, completed in just 40 days, was crafted by sculptor Monti Paul, who described the work as “a matter of pride” and the largest piece he has ever created.

“Building a sculpture of Messi is an honour. It’s the tallest statue I’ve ever made,” Paul told AFP. Local supporters have already begun streaming into the fan zone. Kolkata resident Samir Nandy, 64, said seeing Messi return feels like a personal milestone.

“It would be a dream come true just to see him again. It’s not only his success — it’s the resilience he showed throughout his career that inspires me,” Nandy said.

Messi set for packed schedule across India

Though the statue unveiling will take place virtually due to security reasons, Messi will still appear in Kolkata for a series of engagements, including a short friendly match. His schedule is packed with high-profile meetings as well, with confirmed sessions alongside Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.

From Kolkata, Messi will travel to Hyderabad, where another friendly and a concert in his honour are planned. He will then continue to Mumbai and New Delhi, where reports suggest he may meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the tour’s final leg.

Speaking ahead of his visit, Messi said returning to India brought back fond memories from his last appearance 14 years ago.

“India is a very special country. I remember how passionate the fans were. I’m excited to meet a new generation of supporters and share in the love of this beautiful game,” he said.

A Champion arrives at the peak of his form

Messi arrives in India fresh off another milestone in his trophy-laden career. Earlier this week, he was named Major League Soccer MVP for the second straight season after guiding Inter Miami to the league title and finishing as the top scorer.

His focus will soon shift to Argentina’s World Cup title defence in North America next summer, but for now, India has taken centre stage, and the country is ready to celebrate one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen.

SportsLigue