Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team will not be visiting Kerala this year as previously planned, Kerala’s Sports Minister V Abdurahiman confirmed on Monday. The announcement comes after weeks of speculation regarding the South American team’s potential tour to India, which had generated significant anticipation among football enthusiasts.

The Kerala government had earlier revealed plans to host the FIFA World Cup-winning Argentina squad, led by Messi, later this year. The visit was expected to be a landmark moment for Indian football fans, many of whom were looking forward to witnessing one of the world’s greatest footballers live.

Minister Abdurahiman stated that while the state government had made all necessary arrangements, including providing security, accommodation, and logistical support, the plan fell through due to scheduling issues. According to him, the Argentina team conveyed that it would be difficult for them to visit in October. However, the sponsor, who had already paid the match fee, was only interested in organising the event in that specific month.

"The foreign team informed us about their difficulties in visiting Kerala in October. The sponsor responded that their interest lies only in an October visit," the minister said. He had previously mentioned that the team could arrive in October or November, and that they would be treated as state guests during their stay.

The cancellation has led to disappointment among football fans across the country who were preparing for the rare opportunity to watch a global icon like Messi play in India. Though the visit is off the table for now, the minister did not rule out the possibility of such events being considered again in the future.