Messi wraps up India trip with a wild twist

India Dec 18, 2025

Lionel Messi finished his G.O.A.T. India Tour by visiting Vantara, a massive wildlife rescue center in Gujarat.
Joined by teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, plus Anant Ambani, Messi explored the 3,500-acre sanctuary that cares for elephants, big cats (including one reportedly named Lionel), and birds.

What made this visit special?

Messi got hands-on—he joined a temple Maha Aarti, fed a rhino, and posed with rescued animals. He called Vantara's work "truly beautiful" and said the experience was so memorable he'd love to come back.
The center itself is all about advanced animal care and long-term conservation—something Ambani and his wife Radhika explained during the tour.
Social media loved seeing Messi connect with nature in such a unique way.