Football legend Lionel Messi has sent his signed, memorable 2022 FIFA World Cup jersey to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his 75th birthday on September 17.
Lionel Messi gifts his iconic 2022 FIFA World Cup jersey to PM Modi for his 75th birthday
The former FC Barcelona superstar, who is scheduled to visit India in December will meet PM Modi at his residence. Ahead of it, the Inter Miami forward has already wished the prime minister as he celebrates his 75th birthday on September 17.
The sports entrepreneur and promoter of Messi's tour, Satadru Dutta told IANS on Monday:
“Messi has sent a signed jersey for PM Modi's 75th birthday.”
Dutta further told the aforementioned source that during the footballer’s visit to India they “will try to arrange his meeting with the PM”. Further, it has been said that the MLS star “has wished well for the Indian fans” and “is happy to come to New Delhi and Mumbai for the first time and meet his fans there.”
As per the same source, the Argentine star will visit India on December 13. He will be heading to the football-mad city, Kolkata, first before leaving for Mumbai on December 14th and finally to New Delhi on December 15. It has also been further said that Messi will have events in Salt Lake Stadium, Wankhede Stadium and Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium.”
This will be the World Cup winner’s first visit to India since 2011 when his trip to the country was organised following a FIFA friendly fixture against Venezuela. The match was held at the Salt Lake Stadium.
Argentina edged France at the 2022 FIFA World Cup final to win the biggest trophy in football at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar on December 18. Messi was the one who gave his side a lead by scoring a penalty in the 23rd minute of the first half. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner netted twice as Argentina beat the France International team to win their third World Cup trophy and Messi’s first.