Lionel Messi, the global footballing icon, recently concluded his much-anticipated visit to India, bringing an end to the long wait of countless fans. The “G.O.A.T. India Tour” has dominated headlines ever since the Argentine star set foot on Indian soil, providing a fascinating glimpse of both his personal engagements and India’s rich culture.
While opinions were divided regarding the organisation of the tour, it is undeniable that Messi experienced a spectrum of uniquely Indian moments. The highlight of his trip, however, was an extravagant gesture by Anant Ambani, which immediately captured worldwide attention.
During Messi’s visit to Vantara, the wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation centre founded by Anant Ambani, he was presented with an ultra-luxurious gift: a Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon ‘Asia Edition’, reportedly worth USD 1.2 million (≈ ₹10.91 crore). Observers noted that Messi had arrived without a watch, only to later be seen wearing this rare masterpiece. Globally, only 12 pieces of this edition exist, featuring a black carbon case and a skeleton dial, cementing its status as an extraordinary collector’s item. The gift symbolises the close personal rapport between Messi and the Ambani family.
Adding to the spectacle, Anant Ambani, renowned for his taste in haute horology, wore a Richard Mille RM 056 Sapphire Tourbillon, valued at approximately USD 5 million (≈ ₹45.59 crore). This exquisite sapphire-cased watch is among the rarest in the world, further amplifying the luxurious aura of the event.
Messy’s visit to Vantara went far beyond luxury. In accordance with Sanatana Dharma traditions observed at the centre, Messi participated in several Hindu rituals and sought blessings before embarking on the tour. Accompanied by his Inter Miami teammates, Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi engaged in Maha Aarti, Ambe Mata Puja, Ganesh Puja, Hanuman Puja, and Shiv Abhishek, reflecting peace, unity, and reverence for all living beings.
He then explored Vantara’s vast conservation ecosystem, interacting with rescued lions, leopards, tigers, elephants, herbivores, and reptiles under expert veterinary care. A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when Messi played a football enrichment game with Maniklal, a rescued elephant calf, showcasing the universal language of compassion and play.
In a symbolic gesture, Anant and Radhika Ambani named a lion cub “Lionel” to commemorate Messi’s visit. The football legend lauded Vantara’s efforts, describing the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation work as “truly beautiful”, leaving a lasting impression on him.
Luxury Watches at a Glance :
| Owner | Watch | Value | Global Rarity | Features |
| Lionel Messi | Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon | USD 1.2 million (≈ ₹10.91 Cr) | 12 pieces | Black carbon case, skeleton dial |
| Anant Ambani | Richard Mille RM 056 Sapphire Tourbillon | USD 5 million (≈ ₹45.59 Cr) | Extremely rare | Sapphire case, high-end tourbillon |
Messi’s Indian journey seamlessly blended luxury, culture, and humanitarian engagement, leaving both fans and observers awestruck. From receiving one of the world’s rarest watches to participating in traditional rituals and engaging with rescued wildlife, the tour was a celebration of sport, culture, and compassion.