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Kerala’s Messi Exhibition Matches in Doubt as Argentina’s Official Schedule Excludes India

Despite earlier announcements, Kerala officials have yet to secure formal communication or sponsorships to host Lionel Messi and Argentina in 2025.

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Overview

  • The Argentina Football Federation's official 2026 exhibition match schedule omits Kerala and India, listing stops in China, Qatar, and Africa instead.
  • Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman had announced in November 2024 that Messi and Argentina would play two matches in Kerala, but no official confirmation has been received.
  • The proposed ₹100 crore sponsorship plan, crucial to hosting the matches, remains unresolved, with private sponsors yet to finalize payments.
  • Fans in Kerala, known for their fervent support of Argentina, have expressed disappointment and are planning social media protests against the cancellation.
  • Messi last played in India in 2011, and Kerala officials remain optimistic about reviving discussions with the Argentina Football Federation to secure a match date.