Keralam Government Concludes Inquiry into Messi's Proposed Visit Amid Allegations of Fraud

The Keralam government has wrapped up its investigation into the controversy surrounding Lionel Messi's planned visit, revealing serious allegations of financial irregularities that have cost the state over Rs 22 crore. Chief Minister VD Satheesan announced that recommendations from the Sports Department will guide the next steps, while a Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe alleged GST fraud linked to the case. The inquiry raises questions about the processes followed in securing agreements with the Argentine Football Association. As the government prepares to act on the findings, the implications of this controversy continue to unfold.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 19, 2026, 01:41 IST

Inquiry Completed on Messi's Visit Controversy

Thiruvananthapuram (Keralam) - On August 19, Chief Minister VD Satheesan announced that the investigation into the controversy regarding football superstar Lionel Messi's anticipated visit to Keralam has been finalized. The state government is set to take action based on the findings, which indicate that alleged irregularities have resulted in a loss exceeding Rs 22 crore to the state's finances.

CM Satheesan stated that the Sports Department has concluded its review of the situation, and the recommendations will be forwarded to the relevant department. Additionally, he mentioned that the GST Department has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the suspected GST fraud associated with this issue.

"The review concerning this matter is complete, and a decision will be made shortly based on the complaint submitted by the Secretary of the Sports Department. The inquiry has concluded, and the recommendations for action will be sent to the appropriate department," Satheesan remarked.

"The GST Department has formed a Special Investigation Team to investigate the alleged GST fraud. As I previously mentioned, there has been a GST irregularity. This was not uncovered by our administration; the earlier LDF government had identified it and issued a notice. The subsequent freezing of the proceedings will also be scrutinized. The government has incurred a loss of over Rs 22 crore in this case," he added.

The controversy revolves around the planned visit of the Argentina men's football team, including Messi, to Keralam for a friendly match, which was postponed due to sponsors facing delays in securing FIFA approval. Reports indicate that the Argentina team was slated to compete against Australia at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium during an international window, but the match did not take place.

Last week, Satheesan raised concerns regarding the process that allowed a private company to enter into an agreement with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for the proposed tour.

"The government was involved in the proposal for Messi to come to Kerala and play. Therefore, 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 evaluated? These are all issues that require investigation," CM Satheesan stated last week.

Messi later visited India as part of the 'GOAT India Tour', traveling to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, but did not make it to Kerala.

Satheesan previously indicated that the former LDF government cannot evade responsibility for the controversy.

"There is a significant controversy surrounding this matter. I have received a report from the Sports Department, and it is being taken seriously. The report contains serious allegations, and the investigation report is currently with the government. The government cannot simply distance itself from this issue," he emphasized.

On Tuesday, Satheesan reiterated that the government would take action following the completion of the inquiry and that the GST investigation would delve into the alleged irregularities and the subsequent freezing of proceedings.