Leading Indian outlet India Today has revealed that fans hoping to shake hands with Lionel Messi during his upcoming GOAT Tour will have to pay Rs 10 lakh, which translates to roughly USD 12,000. The premium Meet and Greet package is now being described as the most exclusive and expensive experience of his India visit.

According to the report, Messi is scheduled to land in Kolkata at 1:30 AM IST on December 13, kicking off a packed three-day tour across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. His first official engagement is the high-priced Meet and Greet at the Hyatt Regency Kolkata at 9:30 AM.

The package includes a handshake, a brief interaction and a photograph with the Argentine superstar, who earlier this week secured the 48th trophy of his illustrious career. The cost — equivalent to the annual salary of many Indians — has sparked significant public debate regarding accessibility and privilege.

During the tour, Messi is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, and several chief ministers. Event promoter Satadru Dutta has also confirmed the participation of Messi’s long-time Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez and World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul.

Tickets for the GOAT Tour’s public events are being sold through the District app, starting at Rs 4,500 (about USD 54) in most cities, with Mumbai being the exception at Rs 8,250 (roughly USD 99).

Messi’s visit is already generating intense nationwide anticipation, and the USD 12,000 handshake has quickly become the most talked-about feature of this historic India tour.