Argentine football icon Lionel Messi concluded his promotional GOAT Tour 2025 in India with a private visit to the Vantara Global Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, on December 16, 2025. During the tour of the facility, owned by Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, the billionaire’s son Anant Ambani presented Messi with an ultra-rare Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon ‘Asia Edition’ watch, estimated to be worth around £825,000 to $1.1 million.

Observers noted that Messi arrived at the centre without a watch on his wrist but was later photographed wearing the distinctive timepiece, featuring a black carbon case, skeleton dial, and advanced tourbillon movement. Only 12 examples of this limited-edition model exist worldwide, making it one of the most exclusive luxury items available. The watch includes sophisticated complications such as a dual time zone indicator, function selector, power-reserve indicator, and torque indicator, crafted with high-tech materials often associated with aerospace applications.

The gesture underscored the hospitality extended to Messi, who was accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. The group participated in traditional Indian welcoming rituals and toured the expansive conservation centre, which focuses on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Reports also mentioned a lion cub being named “Lionel” in honour of the visitor.

Messi’s GOAT Tour 2025, spanning December 13 to 15 across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, aimed to celebrate his status as one of football’s greatest players through fan engagements, youth clinics, celebrity exhibitions, and charitable initiatives. The tour drew massive crowds, with events featuring interactions with Indian sporting legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Chhetri.

The Kolkata leg on December 13 at Salt Lake Stadium faced organisational challenges, with fans expressing frustration over limited viewing time, leading to unrest and an official inquiry. Subsequent stops proceeded more smoothly, including a successful event at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium where Tendulkar gifted Messi a signed Indian cricket jersey.

The tour highlighted growing interest in football within India, a nation traditionally dominated by cricket. Messi, fresh from leading Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup title, engaged in masterclasses, penalty demonstrations, and community activities. He expressed optimism about the sport’s future in the country via social media posts thanking fans for their warmth.

Richard Mille watches have long been associated with elite athletes and celebrities, known for innovative design and extreme rarity. Messi, a known enthusiast of luxury timepieces, has previously been seen wearing models from brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe. This addition joins an impressive collection, with past pieces including high-value limited editions.

Anant Ambani, passionate about wildlife conservation, has positioned Vantara as a flagship project emphasising animal welfare. The centre’s invitation to Messi aligned with efforts to raise global awareness, blending philanthropy with high-profile visits.

The tour’s finale shifted focus to positive aspects, including cultural exchanges and luxury hospitality. Messi posted a montage video captioned “Namaste India!” acknowledging the reception and expressing hopes for Indian football’s development.

Industry watchers view such gestures as emblematic of India’s rising influence in global sports marketing, attracting international stars through premium experiences. The watch presentation quickly went viral, sparking discussions on social media about exclusivity and celebrity gifting traditions.

Messi’s collection now includes this standout piece, symbolising connections forged during the visit. The RM 003-V2’s scarcity—limited to a dozen units—enhances its status among collectors.

The tour overall mixed promotional success with logistical lessons, reinforcing Messi’s global appeal. As he returns to preparations for the 2026 season, the India chapter adds a memorable, opulent note.

Richard Mille’s reputation for pushing horological boundaries aligns with the brand’s sponsorships in motorsport and athletics. The ‘Asia Edition’ variant caters to regional prestige markets.

Vantara’s state-of-the-art facilities impressed visitors, showcasing rescued animals in expansive habitats.

Messi’s engagement extended to interactive sessions with young aspiring players across cities.

Fan reactions ranged from enthusiasm over proximity to the star to critiques of event management in certain venues.

The private Jamnagar stop provided a serene contrast to public spectacles.

Ambani family’s hosting reflected broader trends in blending business, philanthropy, and entertainment.

Messi’s gratitude posts resonated widely, bridging cultural divides.

The watch’s technical prowess includes manual winding and visible mechanics appealing to aficionados.

Limited production ensures escalating secondary market values.

The gift exemplifies personalised diplomacy in celebrity circles.

Tour organisers highlighted youth development initiatives launched alongside appearances.

Messi’s presence boosted visibility for Indian football infrastructure needs.

As 2025 closes, the episode cements Messi’s enduring draw.

Luxury watch community buzzed over the rare allocation.

Vantara continues operations focused on conservation goals.

Messi’s itinerary balanced public duties with select private engagements.

The timepiece’s debut on his wrist marked immediate appreciation.

Global media coverage amplified the tour’s reach.

India’s football federation noted inspirational impact on grassroots levels.

The RM model’s heritage traces to early 2000s innovations.

Collectors prize its combination of form and function.

Ambani’s selection demonstrated keen awareness of recipient preferences.

The visit fostered potential future collaborations in sports philanthropy.

Messi’s tour concluded on a high note of mutual respect.