Lionel Messi's recent tour of India has ignited a heated debate, spotlighting the stark contrast between the crores spent on the Argentinian superstar's visit and the struggles faced by Indian football. While the tour generated considerable excitement among fans, it also drew criticism for alleged mismanagement, exorbitant costs, and questionable priorities, prompting reflection on the state of football in the country.
The tour, which included stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Jamnagar, was intended to celebrate Messi's career and connect him with his Indian fanbase. However, the Kolkata leg of the tour was marred by chaos, with fans vandalizing the stadium after Messi's brief appearance. Overcrowding, security breaches, and a perceived prioritization of dignitaries over genuine supporters left many feeling disappointed and cheated. The incident led to the detention of the event's chief organizer and promises of ticket refunds.
Subsequent events in other cities were better organized but faced criticism for shifting the focus from football to Bollywood celebrities and business interests. The high costs associated with premium experiences, such as handshakes and photos with Messi, further fueled the debate about whether the tour was truly meant for the average football fan.
The controversy surrounding the Messi tour has brought to the forefront the long-standing issues plaguing Indian football. Despite being one of the most widely followed sports in the country, football receives a minuscule share of the central sports budget. In the financial year 2024-25, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) was allocated INR 8.78 crore, a mere 0.3% of the total sports budget. This pales in comparison to the funding received by other sports like athletics, badminton, and hockey.
Furthermore, the AIFF has been criticized for its inability to fully utilize the funds allocated to it. In FY 2024-25, the federation only spent 51.02% of its allotted budget, raising serious concerns about its governance and priorities. This underutilization of funds occurs against the backdrop of a declining budget cycle, with AIFF's funding having decreased from INR 30 crore in 2019-20 to INR 9 crore currently.
The lack of investment in infrastructure, poor coaching and development programs, and a general lack of interest and support from the public and the government have all contributed to the decline of Indian football. Many football clubs struggle to find proper training facilities and equipment, and there is a shortage of quality coaches to train young players. As a result, Indian football has struggled to make its mark on the international stage.
The Messi tour controversy has served as a wake-up call for Indian football. While the excitement generated by the superstar's visit is undeniable, it is crucial to address the systemic issues that hinder the growth of the sport in the country. Greater investment in grassroots development, improved infrastructure, better coaching, and more efficient governance are essential to ensure that Indian football can realize its potential. Only then can the country truly celebrate the beautiful game and provide opportunities for young aspirants to pursue their dreams.
