The Argentina national football team, captained by Lionel Messi, is set to visit India in October 2025 for an international exhibition match, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced on Wednesday.
The visit forms part of Argentina’s strategic global outreach in the lead-up to the final qualification matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
AFA President Claudio Fabian Tapia underscored the significance of the initiative, stating, "A new milestone has been achieved for the expansion of our team, opening new opportunities in both India and Singapore. We look forward to consolidating our presence in multiple regions as we progress in 2025 and 2026."
The AFA has actively worked towards strengthening its presence in India since 2021, identifying the country’s fervour for football as a key opportunity for engagement.
Leandro Petersen, AFA’s Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer, noted that the initiative aligns with their long-term strategy of expanding into major global markets.
"This is a new step in AFA’s global expansion. Since 2021, we have identified key opportunities in India and have built a strong connection with the local football community. Our goal is to continue strengthening these relationships while bringing the best of Argentine football to fans," Petersen stated.
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Messi last visited India in 2011 when Argentina played a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Venezuela in Kolkata, securing a 1-0 victory at the Salt Lake Stadium.
The upcoming visit is expected to reignite football enthusiasm in the country, as fans eagerly anticipate watching the reigning world champions in action.
The visit also involves a commercial partnership with HSBC India, which will facilitate engagement opportunities for Indian football fans.
Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking at HSBC India, remarked, "As we join forces with one of the most revered teams in the world of football, we look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for fans and customers alike, and supporting the Argentine team in their journey towards the World Cup 2026."
Further details on the match, including the opponent and venue, are expected to be disclosed in the coming months.
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