Messi surprises Narendra Modi with a signed jersey for his 75th birthday
Sports entrepreneur Satadru Dutta, known for bringing numerous football superstars to India, facilitated the gift.
In a video shared by Dutta, Lionel Messi is seen signing the jersey and wishing Narendra Modi a happy birthday in Spanish. “Señor Modi, Feliz 75 Cumpleaños.”
Dutta told IANS that the jersey will also be accompanied by the possibility of Messi meeting Modi during his upcoming visit to India. Planned for December this year.
Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi will host the events, generating great anticipation among fans and local media.
A gesture that unites football, diplomacy, and global admiration
In addition to the tour, the Argentine national team is scheduled to play a friendly in Kerala in November. Although Messi presence at the match has not yet been confirmed.
The visit promises a historic reunion with India, where the Argentine superstar previously played a friendly against Venezuela in 2011 at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium.
Messi, an inspiration for the Indian generation
Lionel Messi impact goes beyond sports. In March 2025, during Lex Fridman’s podcast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Messi influence on the current generation.
“If you ask the current generation, they will immediately mention Lionel Messi,” he said, comparing his effect to Maradona impact in the 1980s.
This recognition highlights how Messi has become a global cultural and sporting icon. Even in countries where football is still developing.
With his imminent return to India, Lionel Messi not only reaffirms his status as a football icon but also strengthens. The connection between sports, culture, and diplomacy.
