Lionel Messi's much-hyped India GOAT Tour has concluded, but it has left behind uncomfortable questions about India's approach to global sporting events. Beginning in Kolkata and spanning Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi, the tour drew massive crowds and intense excitement, underlining India's fascination with international sports icons. However, the spotlight largely remained on exclusive VIP interactions involving politicians and Bollywood celebrities, while fans who paid heavily for tickets were left sidelined.