It’s not every day that the best soccer player in the world decides to organize his own traveling exhibition matches, but Argentine legend Lionel Messi has proved that he’s not your run-of-the-mill player. The 25-year-old, four-time FIFA player of the year is set to trek across the globe on the 2013 “Messi and Friends” tour this summer, and it’s been announced that there will be a stop at Chicago’s Soldier Field on July 6th. The friendly games are set to benefit the Leo Messi Foundation, which is the FC Barcelona superstar’s charity that was founded in 2007 to raise money and awareness for children suffering from terminal illnesses. Along with Messi, the games will feature 35 international All-Stars playing at the top of their games, including icons like Didier Drogba, Radamel Falcao, and Dani Alves.
In addition to the Chicago stop, “Messi and Friends” will also play matches at venues in Peru, Colombia, and Los Angeles. The specific stadiums and dates have yet to be released, but Vivid Seats will keep you updated as soon as more details are released. The early buzz for “Messi and Friends” is already at a fever pitch, as fans know that they’re in for an incredible showcase. The world-record goal scorer has organized matches like this before, in Central and South America, as well as a small-scale event in Miami last year. 2013 Messi and Friends tickets will be released in late February or early March, but you can purchase premium packages now that include a meet-and-greet with players, sideline seating, and Messi-autographed balls and shirts.
