Keralam CM Questions Previous Government Over Messi's Cancelled Visit

Keralam's Chief Minister VD Satheesan has raised questions about the previous government's management of Lionel Messi's cancelled visit to the state. He is investigating the procedures that allowed a private company to negotiate with the Argentine Football Association for the tour. Despite Messi's recent tour of India, uncertainty remains about a future visit to Keralam. Satheesan has received a report from the Sports Department, which he is reviewing, and he emphasizes the need for accountability from the previous administration. The inquiry also focuses on the private company's role in the agreement, raising concerns about transparency and due diligence.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 13, 2026, 12:52 IST

Inquiry into Messi's Cancelled Visit

The Chief Minister of Keralam, VD Satheesan, has raised concerns regarding the previous administration's handling of football superstar Lionel Messi's planned visit to the state last year. He inquired about the process that allowed a private entity to form an agreement with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for this tour.

Originally, Messi was set to participate in a friendly match in Keralam, which was ultimately postponed as announced by the sponsors. According to reports from Olympics.com, Argentina was scheduled to face the Australian men's football team at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium on November 17. The AFA had conducted a venue inspection in September, as noted by Olympics.com.

This visit was included in the provisional schedule for friendly matches during this year's FIFA International Window in November. The sponsors cited delays in obtaining FIFA's approval, stating that the match would be rescheduled for the next international window. Despite Messi's recent tour of India, which included cities like Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, there remains uncertainty about a future visit to Keralam.

Investigation into Sports Department Report

During a press conference, Satheesan mentioned that a report from the Sports Department regarding this issue has been received and is currently under review. He emphasized that the previous government, led by the Left Democratic Front and CM Pinarayi Vijayan, cannot evade responsibility in this matter.

He stated, "This situation has sparked significant controversy. I have received a report from the Sports Department, and it is being taken seriously. The report includes serious allegations, and the investigation is now with the government. They cannot simply distance themselves from this issue."

Concerns About Private Company Involvement

Satheesan further questioned the role of the private company involved in Messi's proposed visit, asking, "What procedures were followed to allow a private company to enter into an agreement with the Argentine Football Association? Was an Expression of Interest sought? Were the company's market value, financial capacity, or funding sources assessed? These are critical issues that require scrutiny."

He noted that several conflicting statements have surfaced, and the matter is under examination. "I received a complaint, but I have not acted against any institution based solely on that complaint. My focus is on reviewing the complaint. It is incorrect to suggest that I am attempting to shut down any institution," he concluded.