Kerala's Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman has reaffirmed his confidence that the Argentina national football team, led by Lionel Messi, will visit the state as planned. This statement comes amidst some media reports suggesting the team had cancelled their visit due to breaches of contract norms by the sponsors.
The minister clarified that the responsibility of bringing the Argentinian team to Kerala lies with the sponsors and not the state government. He identified the Kochi-based Reporter Broadcasting Company as the entity that has a valid existing agreement with the Argentina team. Abdurahiman stated that the sponsors have assured that they would resolve the payment-related issues soon. "So, as of now, we cannot say that Messi and the Argentina team will not come to Kerala. Though there was some delay in some aspects, there is no confusion at present," he told reporters.
The Sports Minister conveyed his confidence in the sponsors and assured them of the government's full support. He explained that the government relies on sponsors due to the significant expense involved in hosting a top-tier team like Argentina. The government had shortlisted two sponsors, including Reporter Broadcasting Company, and submitted their details to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for necessary clearances. However, the first sponsor could not meet the RBI's eligibility criteria.
Recent reports had cast doubt on Argentina's visit, even suggesting they might play matches in China instead. Abdurahiman addressed these concerns, stating, "There is no need for concern. Necessary steps are being taken". He admitted that financial constraints limited the state government's direct role, remarking, "Had the state government had sufficient funds, there would have been no room for controversy or criticism. We would have brought them here ourselves".
The Kerala Sports Department initiated discussions with the Argentine Football Association. With the state unable to cover the high sponsorship costs, two companies initially expressed interest in sponsoring the visit. While the first sponsor failed to secure RBI clearance, the Reporter Broadcasting Company Pvt Ltd submitted a formal proposal and obtained the necessary approvals from both the Union Ministry of Sports and the RBI.
The estimated cost of bringing the Argentina team is around ₹175 crore. Despite the delay, the sponsor has not expressed any concerns, and their agreement with the Argentine Football Association remains in place. The minister has urged them to make the payment urgently.
Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team are scheduled to visit India in October 2025 for an international exhibition match. This marks Messi's second visit to India, having previously played a World Cup qualifying match against Venezuela in Kolkata in 2011. Argentina won that match 1-0.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) and HSBC have signed a one-year partnership for India and Singapore to collaborate and promote football. As part of the deal, HSBC will offer its customers exclusive benefits such as match tickets, fan experiences, and opportunities to meet Argentine football stars.
