Lionel Messi’s private jet: How much it costs, what’s inside and why he flies Gulfstream V

Photo: Victor | Flickr

Football icon Lionel Messi owns a Gulfstream V private jet, a long-range luxury aircraft valued at around $15 million, according to reports by Spanish newspaper Marca. The aircraft, registered in Argentina as LV-IRQ, was built in 2004 and was purchased by Messi in 2018.

The jet reflects Messi’s personal touch. Its tail is branded with his iconic number 10, while the steps carry the names of his wife Antonela and their three children — Thiago, Mateo and Ciro. Before acquiring the Gulfstream V, Messi previously owned an Embraer Legacy 650, estimated to be worth around $35 million, highlighting his familiarity with private aviation.

Known for its reliability, high performance and long range, the Gulfstream V is considered a fitting choice for the Argentine star, who frequently travels across continents for club and international commitments. The aircraft is configured for comfort, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms and 16 seats that can be converted into eight beds, allowing passengers to rest comfortably on long-haul journeys.

Introduced in 1997, the Gulfstream V was developed as an upgrade to the Gulfstream IV and marked the company’s entry into the ultra-long-range jet segment. It competed with the Bombardier Global Express and first flew in November 1995, receiving FAA certification in April 1997. A total of 193 units were built before the model evolved into the Gulfstream G550.

Powering the jet are Rolls-Royce BR700-710-A1-10 turbofan engines, each delivering 15,000 pounds of thrust. Its advanced supercritical wing design allows the aircraft to carry 12,000 pounds more fuel than its predecessor, giving it the range and efficiency that have made it a favourite among high-profile global travellers.

Meanwhile, the football legend, after the visits to Kolkata and Hyderabad, is set to come to Mumbai on Sunday. Delhi will be the last stop of Messi's tour on Monday.

Notably, Messi's Kolkata leg of the GOAT Tour descended into chaos on Saturday after fans expressed disappointment when the Argentine legend left the event at Salt Lake Stadium much earlier than planned, leaving the crowd angry. The crowd also expressed its anger on VIPs and politicians, including the West Bengal sports minister Arup Biswas, for hogging Messi's attention and time and not letting them catch a glimpse of the football legend.

Many fans who paid a hefty amount to watch a glimpse of the football icon Messi became angry and began throwing water bottles and chairs from the stands. The angry mob also entered the ground and tried to vandalise the tent and the goal post.