Football fans in Kerala and across India are disappointed as the anticipated visit of Argentina’s national team, led by Lionel Messi, to Kerala this year has been canceled. Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman announced the news on August 4, ending weeks of speculation. The state government had previously expressed confidence in hosting the reigning world champions, with Messi expected to be present, possibly in October or November 2025. This announcement had generated immense excitement among fans who looked forward to witnessing Messi and Argentina play in India. However, the visit’s cancellation stems from a scheduling conflict. While a sponsor had already paid the match fee, the Argentine team expressed difficulties in visiting during October. The sponsor, in turn, insisted on hosting the match only in October, leading to the event’s postponement. Minister Abdurahiman has not ruled out a potential visit later in the year or in 2026, provided a mutually agreeable timeframe can be arranged and sponsor terms are renegotiated.
