Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman criticized the Lionel Messi-led Argentina national football team for not fulfilling their commitment to play a friendly match in the state despite substantial financial investments. Abdurahiman expressed disappointment over the collapse of the plan, mentioning the challenges faced in securing sponsors for the Rs 250 crore needed for the international team.
The situation led to a controversy as the opposition United Democratic Front questioned the transparency of the deal. The uncertainty arose when sponsors confirmed that Messi and his team would not visit Kerala in November, contrary to earlier announcements.
Argentina’s decision to play only in Angola during the specified period was cited as the reason for the cancellation of the Kerala match. This development disappointed fans and sparked a political dispute, with Congress leaders accusing the state government of prematurely announcing the event without proper confirmation.
Despite reports suggesting Messi’s visit in March 2026, Minister Abdurahiman had previously assured that Messi would play in India. The match, initially planned for November, was postponed due to infrastructural issues at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. Critics remained skeptical due to the unfulfilled promise of Messi’s earlier visit.
The Kerala events contrasted with the successful “Messi GOAT Tour 2025,” which included appearances in Kolkata and Mumbai. The tour, unlike the stalled Kochi fixture, featured a significant event at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium and fan interactions in Mumbai, marking Messi’s return to these cities after his 2011 visit.
