Kerala | August 5, 2025 — Football fans in Kerala have received heartbreaking news: Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team will no longer visit the state for a planned exhibition match. The cancellation was confirmed by Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman and follows scheduling challenges that could not be reconciled, despite sponsorship funds already paid 💰
The match had been pitched as one of the most ambitious sports events for Kerala, with ₹130 crore paid upfront by sponsors to secure the visit. However, the Argentina Football Association reportedly faced difficulties in meeting the originally agreed October schedule.
The state had planned to host the team as honored guests, with arrangements for security, accommodation, and hospitality taken care of—though financial responsibility rested with the sponsor.
Fans had held onto hopes since the Argentina Football Association held talks with Kerala officials in late 2024. Optimism returned earlier in the year when the Minister hinted the match was still on track. Despite this, the recent confirmation marks the official end of the plan for 2025
Although there remains speculation about a possible India visit in December, Kerala fans will not experience the live match that was envisioned specifically for their state.
This cancellation raises questions about sports event planning, contractual assurance, and the challenges of coordinating international tours. The organizers and sponsors may consider legal recourse if the contract breach is confirmed.
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