Did Jay Shah Gift T20 World Cup Tickets to Messi on His India Tour?
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Synopsis
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, was honored with T20 World Cup tickets, a signed jersey, and a bat during the GOAT India Tour. This remarkable event was attended by prominent figures, including ICC chairman Jay Shah and Delhi's chief minister, Rekha Gupta. Messi expressed his gratitude for the love received from fans in India.
Key Takeaways
- Messi received T20 World Cup tickets from Jay Shah.
- He was honored with a framed cricket bat and Team India jersey.
- Messi acknowledged the love and support from Indian fans.
- The event showcased a blend of sports and cultural exchange.
- Messi aims to return to India for future engagements.
New Delhi, Dec 15 (NationPress) The iconic Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi received tickets for the upcoming India vs USA Men's T20 World Cup 2026 from ICC chairman Jay Shah during the concluding segment of the GOAT India Tour at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The event was graced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and DDCA President Rohan Jaitley. Alongside the tickets, Messi was also presented with a framed cricket bat and a Team India jersey, together with his teammates Rodrigo de Paul and Luis Suarez.
Former Indian goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan, who played for West Ham United in the Women’s Premier League, also contributed by giving a signed t-shirt to each of the guests.
Expressing his gratitude to the enthusiastic crowd at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Messi remarked, “I appreciate all the affection shown to us here in India over these days. It was truly a unique experience to share with everyone. Although it was brief and intense, the love we received was astonishing, and we felt it firsthand. Everything you did for us was extraordinary, and we will definitely return someday—maybe to play a match or for another occasion. Thank you so much!”
Messi was initially set to arrive in the national capital earlier in the morning, but fog delayed his charter flight. He promptly moved to the Leela Palace Hotel for a meet-and-greet session lasting about an hour.
The GOAT Tour faced challenges at its inception, particularly in Salt Lake Stadium, where crowd management issues turned overwhelming enthusiasm into frustration among fans eager to catch a glimpse of Messi, Luis Suarez, and Rodrigo de Paul.
Upon reaching Telangana's capital, Messi engaged in various photo opportunities, including playing with children and mingling with officials. He made a brief appearance on the big screen and broadcast visuals during a match at Uppal Stadium, where he waved to fans from a VIP box.
Last evening, Messi was in Mumbai, where he met cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with current and former Indian footballers, film stars, and politicians at the renowned Wankhede Stadium.
Point of View
I recognize this event as a significant cross-cultural exchange that celebrates sportsmanship. Messi’s appreciation for India’s warmth showcases the global reach of sports beyond borders. Such moments enhance the shared love for football and cricket, fostering unity among fans worldwide. The enthusiasm surrounding the GOAT Tour reflects India's vibrant sports culture, deserving our attention and respect.
NationPress
16/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who presented Messi with the T20 World Cup tickets?
ICC chairman Jay Shah presented Messi with the T20 World Cup tickets during the GOAT India Tour.
What gifts did Messi receive during the event?
Messi received tickets for the T20 World Cup, a framed cricket bat, and a Team India jersey.
Where did the event take place?
The event took place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
Who accompanied Messi during the tour?
Messi was accompanied by Rodrigo de Paul and Luis Suarez during the tour.
What was Messi's message to the fans?
Messi expressed gratitude for the love shown by fans and mentioned that he hopes to return to India.
