Soccer Superstars in GTA VI: Fan-Made Characters Showcase Messi, Ronaldo, and More
Lionel Messi, coincidentally residing in the game’s setting of Miami, is depicted as a brooding loner in the latest trailer for the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI. The excitement surrounding the sixth installment of Rockstar Games’ iconic series has reached new heights, with prominent football legends like Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar Jr., Salah, and others getting their own GTA characters.
In the virtual Miami crime scene, Messi navigates the Magic City as a brooding loner, adorned in a bomber jacket. Cristiano Ronaldo, the Al-Nassr superstar, undergoes a stylish transformation, becoming a medallion-wearing crook sporting retro aviators.
Grand Theft Auto has consistently captivated audiences since its debut in 1997, and each new edition is eagerly anticipated by fans. Despite challenges in containing leaks of upcoming releases, the fan community has showcased remarkable creativity. Images like Golden Boy Jude Bellingham appearing relaxed in the Miami crime scene mirror his demeanor on the field for Real Madrid, blending football and gaming cultures.
Other notable football figures, including Vinicius Junior, Neymar, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, have also been transformed into GTA characters. Over its 26-year history, Grand Theft Auto has become the most profitable entertainment product, with the 2013 edition generating over $7.7 billion (£6.3bn) in sales.
Looking ahead, while the re-imagined football icons won’t be featured in the 2025 release, Grand Theft Auto VI will make history by introducing a female lead character. The possibility of players following MLS’ newest star, Messi, at Inter Miami in the game adds an intriguing aspect yet to be unveiled.
