Messi will unveil a 21-metre (70-foot) statue of himself in India

An iron sculpture depicting Lionel Messi hoisting the World Cup was unveiled virtually in Kolkata, launching the Argentine superstar’s four-city "GOAT Tour" of India. While security concerns prevented an in-person unveiling, the 38-year-old Inter Miami captain expressed excitement about returning to this "passionate football nation" fourteen years after his last visit.

The Kolkata leg features a "Hola Messi" fan zone with a life-sized throne replica and a recreation of his Miami residence. Sculptor Monty Paul completed the tribute in just 40 days. During his whirlwind trip, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will play friendly matches in Kolkata and Hyderabad, attend a concert, and meet celebrated icons like Shah Rukh Khan.

The tour proceeds to Mumbai and New Delhi, where a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled. Fresh off winning his second MLS MVP award, Messi aims to inspire a new generation of enthusiastic Indian fans of the sport.