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Save the date! Messi to visit India for an event at Wankhede on Dec 14
A source within the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) confirmed that the organizers, Wizcraft, have received the green light to host a ticketed event featuring the football icon. "Yes, permission has been granted by the Apex Council after a formal request was submitted. Some well-known Indian cricketers are also likely to attend," the official told Times of India.
"Yes, Messi is set to visit the Wankhede Stadium for an event on December 14. The organisers of the event (Wizcraft) have sought permission for the event, which will be ticketed. Their request was discussed by the Mumbai Cricket Association's Apex Council in a meeting recently and the permission was granted," a reliable source in the MCA told TOI on Friday. "A couple of superstar cricketers may also attend the event," he added. Messi to visit three cities during India visit
Messi's India visit, scheduled between December 13 and 15, will span three major cities, Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai, as part of a celebratory tour highlighting his legendary career and contributions to the sport. In Kolkata, Messi will be honored at Eden Gardens, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expected to be present at the felicitation ceremony.
During his stay in Kolkata, Messi will also lead a youth football workshop and inaugurate a football clinic. A special seven-a-side competition titled the "GOAT CUP" will be held in his name at the Eden Gardens, adding to the festivities. Messi to play alongside Virat Kohli, Dhoni? Reports suggest that Lionel Messi might take part in a light-hearted cricket match during his visit to India, possibly going up against some of the country's most celebrated cricketers, including MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. The idea of the football icon stepping onto the cricket pitch has generated a wave of excitement among fans, as it would mark a rare and memorable crossover between two of the world's most loved sports. If it happens, the event would bring together football and cricket fans alike, making for a truly unique spectacle that blends star power, entertainment, and sporting fun. Messi's Kerala visit yet to be confirmed
Meanwhile, Kerala is preparing to welcome Messi and the Argentina national football team later this year. Kerala's Sports Minister, V Abdurahiman, confirmed that Messi will lead Argentina in a friendly match at Thiruvananthapuram's Greenfield International Stadium in either October or November. The match will be backed by the state government, which has pledged full support and hospitality.
This marks Messi's second visit to India. His first appearance was back in September 2011, when he played in a friendly fixture against Venezuela at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium. Now 38 and playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi is in the final stages of an illustrious footballing journey.
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