messi-led-argentina-to-play-in-kerala-next-march-says-minister

Kerala’s long-standing ambition to host Argentina’s national football team appears back on track, with Sports Minister V Abdurahiman announcing that the Lionel Messi-led squad is expected to play in the state in March 2026.

 

Speaking at an event linked to the state’s Sports Vision 2031 initiative in Malappuram, Abdurahiman said, “Two days ago, we received a mail from the Argentina team confirming that they will come in March. They also mentioned that an official announcement will be made soon.” He added that preliminary arrangements for the visit had already been completed.

 

The minister noted that the government had originally planned to host the South American champions at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi this month, but the plan fell through. “Even though we expected to complete the facilities at the stadium in Kochi, due to some inconvenience, the work could not be finished on time. As the stadium approval was not received, we could not host the match,” he said.

 

Also read: FIFA approval delay halts Messi’s India visit

 

He emphasised that changes in international sporting schedules were not unusual and should not be interpreted competitively. “The minister said changes in the schedule of international matches are common and should not be seen as anyone's victory or defeat.”

 

“We tried to bring such a major football event to Kerala, and that attempt itself is commendable,” he said. Abdurahiman added that the government is committed to expanding the state’s stake in the growing sports economy, pointing to the rapid commercial rise of football and cricket.

 

“Football and cricket have now become part of a large sports economy that provides employment to lakhs. So why should we hesitate to be part of it. We have decided to engage actively in this sector,” he said.

 

The Sports Department and the event sponsor had earlier announced that Argentina would play a top international side in Kochi this month. However, Argentina later declared its November international schedule with no fixture in Kochi, prompting the state to seek alternative dates.

 

The state government now hopes the March 2026 window will finally allow Kerala to host one of the world’s most followed football teams.