The second stop of Lionel Messi’s GOAT India Tour 2025 saw a high-profile convergence of politics and sport in Hyderabad, as Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, shared what was clearly a “fanboy moment” meeting the Argentinian football legend.
The Hyderabad Huddle
Rahul Gandhi flew into Hyderabad on Saturday afternoon specifically for Messi’s program at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium (RGI Stadium).
The Congress leader subsequently shared his meeting with Messi and his Inter Miami teammates, Luis Suárez and Rodrigo de Paul, across his social media handles, including Facebook and Instagram. His excited caption encapsulated the sentiment:
“Viva Football With the GOAT @leomessi.”
He also posted a photo with the trio, captioning it simply: “The beautiful game.”
Earlier in the evening, Messi was officially welcomed to Hyderabad by Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy at the Taj Falaknuma Palace. Reddy later joined the event at the RGI Stadium, even turning up in football attire.
Orderly Contrast to Kolkata Chaos
Messi’s Hyderabad event was noted for its success and the peaceful nature of its proceedings, standing in stark contrast to the chaos and vandalism that marred the opening leg of the GOAT India Tour in Kolkata.
- Mesmerizing the Crowd: The celebrated Argentine footballer mesmerized the nearly-packed Hyderabad crowd at the RGI Stadium, displaying some of the signature skills that have cemented his status as the “Greatest of All Time,” reported PTI.
- Warm Welcome: Addressing the crowd, Messi conveyed his happiness through a translator: “I am very happy to be in Hyderabad in the midst of all the love and affection shown by you all.”
- Event Highlights: The program included a GOAT Cup penalty shootout involving Messi, Suárez, de Paul, and CM Reddy. The team also conducted football clinics with children before departing the stadium.
The GOAT India Tour Continues
The four-city GOAT India Tour began on Saturday with the first stop in Kolkata, followed by the Hyderabad leg. The tour is set to continue with stops in Mumbai and New Delhi. In the national capital, Messi is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.