In a heartwarming gesture that bridges the worlds of sports and diplomacy, Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has sent a signed jersey from the 2022 FIFA World Cup to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On 17 September 2025, “Lionel Messi Surprises Indian PM Narendra Modi before the scheduled tour of India from December 13 to 15 later this year.” Argentina played a FIFA friendly against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
The gift, which arrived amid ongoing celebrations of global football unity, highlights Messi’s appreciation for Modi’s vocal support of international sports and his congratulations to the Argentine team after their historic victory.
The story broke earlier this week when PM Modi’s office shared a photo on social media, showing the autographed blue-and-white striped jersey emblazoned with Messi’s signature and a personal note. “This is more than just a jersey—it’s a symbol of friendship between our nations,” Modi tweeted, accompanied by a picture of him holding the iconic piece of memorabilia.
Lionel Messi Surprises on PM Narendra Modi before “GOAT tour of India December 13 to 15, 2025″
Fans across India and Argentina erupted in excitement, with social media buzzing about the unexpected crossover between one of the world’s greatest athletes and India’s leader.
Messi, who led Argentina to their third World Cup title in Qatar 2022, has been known for his humble off-field persona. Sources close to the footballer revealed that the gift was inspired by Modi’s enthusiastic messages following the final match against France.
Modi had publicly praised Messi’s “unmatched skill and determination,” calling the win a “triumph for the spirit of the game.” In response, Messi reportedly wanted to express his gratitude personally, opting for this signed jersey as a token of respect.
This isn’t the first time sports icons have connected with political figures in such a meaningful way. Remember when Cristiano Ronaldo gifted his jersey to various world leaders?
Messi’s move adds to that tradition, especially as India gears up to host more international sporting events. With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, gestures like these remind us how football can unite diverse cultures.
Indian football enthusiasts are thrilled. “It’s amazing to see Messi acknowledging India like this,” said Rajesh Kumar, a die-hard fan from Mumbai. “PM Modi has been pushing for sports development here, and this could inspire more kids to pick up a ball.” On the flip side, Argentine supporters are proud of their hero’s global outreach, with one Buenos Aires resident commenting, “Messi is not just our captain; he’s a world ambassador.“
As for the jersey itself, it’s now likely to find a place in Modi’s personal collection or perhaps even a national sports museum. Details on the exact inscription remain under wraps, but insiders hint it includes a message about “unity through sport.”
FIFA officials have yet to comment, but the organisation’s emphasis on global inclusivity aligns perfectly with this exchange.
