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Published: December 13, 2025 12:31 PM IST 
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When football meets emotion, Kolkata knows how to show up. On Saturday, the City of Joy witnessed a spectacle that will be remembered for years, as a towering 70-foot statue of Lionel Messi was unveiled at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club. The statue, depicting Messi holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, celebrates his iconic 2022 World Cup triumph and his enduring bond with Indian football fans.
Messi, who arrived in Kolkata at around 2:30 am, joined the unveiling virtually from his hotel, the Hyatt Regency. Despite the early hours, the stadium-like venue was packed with fans who gathered to be part of what many called a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment.
What makes the statue so special?
The massive installation captures Messi in one of the most defining moments of his career, lifting the World Cup. For fans in Kolkata, a city known for its deep-rooted football culture, the statue is more than a tribute; it’s a symbol of global footballing excellence finding a home in India.
West Bengal minister and Sree Bhumi Sporting Club president Sujit Bose confirmed that the statue was created with full consent from Messi and his team. Speaking to ANI, Bose said the footballer and his management were pleased after seeing the final structure and that the club has remained in regular touch with Messi’s camp.
Shah Rukh Khan joins the celebration
Adding a Bollywood touch to the historic visit, Shah Rukh Khan met Messi at the hotel along with his son AbRam. The young star was seen clicking pictures with Messi and his teammates, Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. Shah Rukh appeared visibly delighted as AbRam interacted with the football legends, making the moment even more special for fans following the visit closely.
Watch the video here
VIDEO | Kolkata: Football icon Lionel Messi to virtually unveil his 70-foot statue from Salt Lake stadium, with West Bengal Minister Sujit Bose and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan present at the event.#LionelMessi #Kolkata #Football
(Full VIDEO available on PTI Videos –… pic.twitter.com/dqISIwMgl4
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 13, 2025
Why Messi’s return matters to India?
This marks Messi’s first trip to India since 2011, when Argentina played a friendly match against Venezuela at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. Fourteen years later, his return has reignited excitement around football in the country.
Promoter and organiser of the GOAT India Tour, Satadru Dutta, said Messi’s visit has brought renewed energy to Indian football. He noted that the growing fan enthusiasm and increased sponsor interest reflect football’s rising popularity in India once again.
As fans continue to celebrate Messi’s presence, the towering statue now stands tall in Kolkata, a reminder of football’s power to unite emotions, cultures, and generations.
