The iconic streets of Kolkata were recently abuzz with the unexpected sight of the Argentina national team’s bus cruising through the city. With pictures of World Cup winners - Lionel Messi, Angel di Maria and Enzo Fernandez - on the side of the vehicle, this appearance has sparked intense speculation and excitement among football fans in India.
Could this be a hint of a future visit by the World Champions, led by the enigmatic Messi?
The official Instagram page of Argentine Football Association’s India shared a video post in collaboration with the official accounts of the Argentinian National Football Team - Seleccion Argentina in which the bus is seen around iconic landmarks of Kolkata.
While the official reason for the bus’s presence remains undisclosed, it may coincide with a significant development: the signing of ITC Limited, a leading Indian conglomerate, as the Argentine Football Association’s (AFA) regional sponsor.
The conglomerate joined the FIFA World Cup champion and the world’s top footballing nation, Argentina, as its official regional sponsor. The strategic partnership, which was officially announced here on Tuesday, was formalised looking at the Albiceleste’s huge popularity in India, especially in Bengal and Kerala.
As part of the one-year partnership the ITC will have its different brands harness the rich legacy of AFA to engage with consumers through a series of unique initiatives. Participants will have the chance to win match tickets, meet and greet team players, branded merchandise, memorabilia among others.
Launching the partnership, ITC unveiled exclusive packs, merchandise and memorabilia featuring Argentine stars like Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, Julian Alvarez and Emiliano Martinez. However, the new regional sponsor of Argentina Football Association could not specify whether the players from the champion team will be visiting India in future.
The bus’ journey through Kolkata might just be a symbolic gesture celebrating the new partnership, it has undeniably ignited hope and anticipation. The passionate Indian fanbase would undoubtedly welcome the opportunity to witness their football idols live, creating an electrifying atmosphere in the City of Joy.
(with inputs from Amitabh Das Sharma)
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