Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated visit to India has been officially confirmed, with the Argentine football legend set to arrive in Kerala from October 25 to November 2, 2025.
This announcement was made by Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman during an event in Kozhikode on January 11, 2025.
The visit is expected to be a landmark event for football fans in the region, as Messi and the Argentina national football team will participate in friendly matches and engage with fans.
Details of the Visit
During his week-long stay in Kerala, Messi will not only play in friendly matches but will also have a public interaction session lasting approximately 20 minutes.
This opportunity allows fans to get up close with the football icon, making it a memorable experience for many.
The exact details regarding the venues and opponents for the friendly matches are yet to be disclosed, but the matches will be conducted under government supervision and with financial backing from Kerala’s trade community.
Minister Abdurahiman emphasized the significance of this visit, stating, “As part of further encouraging sports, we invited the Argentina national football team to Kerala. They have agreed to play a friendly match in India in 2025.”
He highlighted that discussions had taken place during his recent trip to Spain with representatives of the Argentine team, which ultimately led to this exciting confirmation.
Background and Significance
Messi’s visit is especially significant given the immense support he and the Argentina team received from Indian fans during their successful campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The passionate football culture in Kerala has long celebrated Messi’s achievements, and this visit is expected to further boost football’s popularity in the state.
The initiative to bring Messi and his team to Kerala follows previous attempts that faced challenges due to financial constraints.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) initially rejected proposals for hosting international matches due to high costs.
However, with proactive measures from the Kerala government and personal outreach from Minister Abdurahiman to the Argentine Football Association, plans were solidified.
Expectations and Future Developments
As excitement builds around Messi’s visit, officials are preparing for what promises to be a historic event for both Indian football and its fans.
The official announcement regarding specific match details and venues is expected to follow shortly from the Argentine Football Association.
This visit not only highlights Kerala’s growing stature as a hub for international sports but also reflects the state’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture through large-scale events and initiatives aimed at promoting football among its youth.
