Lionel Messi was gifted a limited edition Richard Mille watch worth £825,000 during his recent tour of India. The timepiece, an ultra-rare 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon 'Asia Edition', was presented to the Argentine star by Anant Ambani, son of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani. Only 12 such watches exist globally.
The 38-year-old's tour, dubbed the 'GOAT tour', took him to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. It began tumultuously at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, where Messi's appearance lasted only 20 minutes. Disappointed fans, many of whom paid up to £100 for tickets, grew angry, ripping out seats and throwing objects onto the pitch. Security escorted Messi, along with Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, from the stadium.
The situation improved at the Vantara Global Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre in Jamnagar, owned by Mukesh Ambani. There, Messi received the watch, which he wore immediately. The tour concluded on Tuesday, and Messi posted a message on Instagram thanking India for its hospitality and expressing hope for the country's football future.
Messi's season recently ended with Inter Miami winning the MLS Cup for the first time. He has now won 44 trophies in his career. Looking ahead, Messi's priority in 2026 will be defending Argentina's World Cup title in North America. Argentina have been drawn in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
