Lionel Messi receives million-dollar gift from Indian billionaire
Lionel Messi, Inter Miami and Argentina national team forward, received a limited-edition watch worth $1.2 million as a gift during his promotional GOAT India Tour 2025, The Mirror reported.
On the last day of the tour, Messi visited the Vantara Global Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre, owned by the country’s richest person, Mukesh Ambani, whose net worth, according to Forbes, is estimated at $105 billion. The footballer was accompanied by the entrepreneur’s son, Anant Ambani, who presented the generous gift.
The Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon Asia Edition watch gifted to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner are estimated to be worth $1.2 million. Furthermore, the fact that only 12 pieces were released adds to their exclusivity.
During the meeting with Messi, Ambani himself was wearing one of the world’s most exclusive watches — the Richard Mille Piece Unique RM 056 Sapphire Tourbillon, which carries a $5 million price tag.
After the tour was completed, Messi thanked the organizers for their hospitality and wished Indian football a bright future.
«Namaste India! What incredible visits to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Thanks for the warm welcome, great hospitality and all the expressions of love throughout my tour. I hope football has a bright future in India!» the athlete wrote on Instagram.
Context
Messi’s GOAT India Tour took place from December 13 to 15 and covered four cities: Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.
The footballer’s visit to Kolkata was marked by a scandal that resulted in the arrest of tour organizer and promoter Satadru Dutta.
