Recent media reports have sparked widespread discussion after claims emerged that football superstar Lionel Messi received ₹89 crore for his India tour and that ₹11 crore was paid as tax to the Indian government. The information surfaced during a police investigation into the mismanagement of a high-profile football event held in Kolkata.
According to reports from multiple Indian news outlets, the figures were mentioned by an arrested event organiser during questioning by investigators. The organiser allegedly told police that Messi was paid ₹89 crore for his appearance and related commitments in India, and that a portion of this amount—around ₹11 crore—was remitted as tax.
However, it is important to note that these claims have not been officially confirmed by Lionel Messi, his management team, or Indian tax authorities. The details are currently part of an ongoing investigation, and officials are still examining financial records linked to the event.
Experts point out that when international celebrities participate in events in India, taxes are usually handled by organisers or deducted at source, depending on contractual arrangements. Therefore, the reported tax amount does not necessarily mean Messi personally paid the tax directly.
Until authorities complete their probe and release verified findings, the claims surrounding Messi’s earnings and tax payments during his India tour remain unverified. Readers are advised to treat the information cautiously and rely on official confirmations for final clarity.