Sports
Messi to Unveil 21-Metre Statue of Himself During India ‘GOAT’ Tour
Lionel Messi will unveil a 21-metre (70-foot) statue of himself in India on Saturday as part of his three-day GOAT Tour, which has sparked a fan frenzy.
The iron sculpture in Kolkata, depicting Messi holding aloft the World Cup, is part of a tour that will visit four Indian cities and may include a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
For security reasons, the 38-year-old Argentina and Inter Miami superstar will unveil the monument virtually rather than in person.
A “Hola Messi” fan zone has been set up in Kolkata, featuring a life-sized replica of Messi sitting on a throne. The hall also recreates his Miami home, complete with mannequins of his family members.
Football fan Samir Nandy described the experience as “a dream come true” to see his idol: “Legends are not made by success alone. It is his resilience that made me believe in him. The statue is a fitting tribute to him.”
The statue’s main sculptor, Monti Paul, told AFP the structure was built in 40 days.
“It’s a matter of pride to build the sculpture of Messi. It’s the tallest statue I have made,” he said.
During his whirlwind trip to Kolkata, Messi will also meet Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.
Messi expressed excitement ahead of the tour:
“India is a very special country, and I have good memories from my time there 14 years ago, the fans were fantastic.
“India is a passionate football nation, and I look forward to meeting a new generation of fans while sharing the love I have for this beautiful game.”
After Kolkata, where Messi will play a short friendly match, he will travel to Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. In Hyderabad, he will attend a concert in his honour and play another friendly, and he is reportedly scheduled to meet Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi.
Messi recently won his second consecutive Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player award after leading Inter Miami to the MLS title and topping the league in goals. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward will spearhead Argentina’s defence of the World Cup in June-July in North America.
