Messi gifted $1.2 million Richard Mille watch by Indian billionaire

Lionel Messi recently completed his first international tour in India, known as the “GOAT Tour”. The Argentine captain visited Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi to meet local fans for a four-day trip.

At the end of his trip, Messi paid a visit to the Vantara Global Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, owned by Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani. During this visit, the former Barcelona star was gifted a rare RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon “Asia Edition” watch by Ambani’s son.

Noteworthy, the luxury watch is limited to just 12 pieces worldwide and is valued at around $1.09 million. It features an innovative sapphire disc that creates a striking visual effect when highlighting the time markings, along with a special mechanism that allows users to switch between manufacturing and time-setting modes.

Anant Ambani was also seen wearing one of the rarest watches in the world - the Richard Mille RM 056 Sapphire Tourbillon. This one-of-a-kind timepiece is valued at around $5 million, or approximately Rs 45.59 crore.

While at Vantara, Messi took part in traditional Hindu rituals, toured the conservation facilities, and met with caregivers and wildlife protection teams. The visit also reflected the warm personal bond between Messi and Anant Ambani, built on their shared interest in wildlife conservation.

Messi was accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, who were given a traditional welcome featuring folk music, a ceremonial aarti, and a shower of flower petals.

However, not all of the tour went smoothly, as fans were left angry after Messi appeared at an event for only five minutes. He was at Salt Lake Stadium in Greater Kolkata, but thousands of frustrated supporters flooded the pitch, forcing a swift exit.