Progress of SIT Investigation into Messi's Postponed Visit to Keralam
SIT Investigation Update: Minister's Remarks
The Sports Minister of Keralam, OJ Janeesh, has stated that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is making significant progress in its inquiry regarding the postponed visit of football superstar Lionel Messi to the state. He criticized the previous LDF administration for its 'lack of clarity' on various aspects of this situation.
Originally, Messi was scheduled to visit Keralam for a friendly match, which was announced to be postponed by the sponsors last year. According to reports from Olympics.com, Argentina was set to face the Australian men's football team at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium on November 17. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) had conducted a venue inspection in September as part of the preparations for this match, which was included in the provisional itinerary for FIFA's International Window in November.
In a media briefing, Janeesh remarked, 'The SIT investigation is on track. There are numerous questions that require answers. How could a company with a mere Rs 10 lakh paid-up capital manage an event valued at Rs 200 crore? There are several unclear elements that must be thoroughly investigated.'
The sponsors indicated that a delay in obtaining FIFA's approval was the reason for the postponement, and they mentioned that the match would be rescheduled for the next international window. Despite Messi's recent tour of India, which included stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, there remains uncertainty regarding a potential visit to Keralam.
Messi's Retirement from International Football
In a related development, Messi announced his retirement from the national team on Monday, concluding a remarkable international career that began with his senior debut in 2005. He holds the record as Argentina's most-capped player and its all-time leading scorer, having led the nation to three significant international titles.
Messi's journey with Argentina was marked by both disappointment and triumph. After suffering defeats in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany and the 2016 Copa America final against Chile, he finally secured a major trophy for Argentina by winning the 2021 Copa America, ending a 28-year drought.
He further solidified his legacy by guiding Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he scored twice in the final against France and successfully converted a penalty in the shootout, leading Argentina to a 4-2 win after a dramatic 3-3 draw in extra time.
Argentina also retained the Copa America title in 2024, adding yet another prestigious accolade to Messi's illustrious international career.