A historic sports event unfolded when cricket star MS Dhoni teamed up with soccer icon Lionel Messi for the Lay’s India promotional campaign. The advertisement debuted before Mumbai Indians faced off against Chennai Super Kings on April 20, 2025, at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and promptly caught the attention of social media users. The advertisement on Lay’s India’s Instagram presented these famous global players as they combined their sports while inspiring strong admiration from fans across social networks.

Dhoni showcases his soccer abilities alongside Messi in a pitch match that features the cricket master at the same time as the football legend in the promotional ad. These two unexpected partners generated widespread fan excitement through online video distribution starting on X, where fans exclaimed the partnership was their “dream come true.” The advertisement's viewing experience gains strength from hitting audiences during the busy IPL season since it stimulates the widespread passion for cricket and football throughout the fan base. Dhoni produced a match-winning effort for CSK against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) IPL 2025 on April 14 at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, with a score of 26* off 11 balls with four fours and a one-handed meter six to take CSK to a remarkable five-wicket win chasing 167, and succeeded in stopping their five-game losing streak. With the ad having been released a few days prior to this dazzling win, it has generated more impact and connected cricket and football fans together. CSK's disciplined bowling effort, spearheaded by Ravindra Jadeja's 2/24, marked LSG to 166/7. With CSK losing by 240 runs the last time they played LSG, CSK had a vaulting task in turning it around. Dhoni and Shivam Dube put together an invaluable 43-run strategy that gave CSK momentum to get over the line. 

People use social media platforms to express their enormous enthusiasm regarding the advertisement. Labeling Dhoni and Messi as “the ultimate GOATs” (Greatest of All Time) because they appreciate his dazzling football play while admiring her effortless grace. Lay's chose to unite the cohesive force of two legendary players who bring "Captain Cool" Dhoni's cricket attitude together with football prodigy Messi's record-setting abilities while demonstrating their connection to all people. Lay's India took advantage of this perfect match to develop an advertising campaign that moves beyond sports categories and attracts viewers from many backgrounds.

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Omg collaboration ad of legend goat ms dhoni and leo messi 😍😍😍😍 my dream dream came true

pic.twitter.com/aKSPEh5Q9b

— Thala super fan (@msdian__fan) April 16, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 32: Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals Full Match Highlights

A Marketing Masterstroke 

This ad is a watershed moment in the history of sports marketing, as it brings together two icons whose fanbases transcend continents. By partnering with IPL's big-time reach, Lay's couldn't ask for better visibility. The Dhoni-Messi collaboration is not just an advertisement; it is a celebration of excellence by two greats in sport and a continuation of their legendary status while sparking conversations all over the world. As fans continue to share and celebrate this campaign, it will be hailed as a pivotal moment in brand storytelling.