Kolkata welcomed football legend Lionel Messi early Saturday morning as he arrived in India for the G.O.A.T. India Tour 2025. The Argentine superstar landed at 2:26 a.m. in his Gulfstream V private jet, accompanied by Luis Suarez and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul.
The Gulfstream V, widely regarded as an ultra-luxurious and long-range business jet, has captured attention almost as much as Messi himself. The aircraft can carry passengers over 6,500 nautical miles non-stop, cruising at speeds above 550 mph and flying as high as 51,000 feet, allowing it to avoid most air traffic. Measuring 96.4 feet long and 25.8 feet high, its cabin is slightly more spacious than other Gulfstream models, offering unparalleled comfort and privacy.
A used Gulfstream V costs around $9–14 million, while new variants like the G550 and G650 can exceed $40 million. Annual operating costs—including fuel, crew, maintenance, and hangar fees—range from $2–4 million, making it one of the most expensive private jets in the world.
Thousands of fans braved the December chill, waiting past midnight for a glimpse of Messi. Heavy security ensured smooth operations, with only a handful of airport staff seeing him as he was whisked away to his hotel through a back entrance.
Over the next three days, Messi will tour Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, meeting chief ministers, corporate leaders, Bollywood celebrities, and eventually Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Messi’s arrival highlights the sheer scale of his global appeal, while his Gulfstream V arrival adds a touch of luxury and exclusivity, reflecting the superstar’s lifestyle. Fans are eagerly anticipating the football icon’s engagements across India, making this one of the most high-profile sports events of the year.
