Will Messi's Argentina Play in Kerala in 2026?
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Synopsis
Kerala football fans face disappointment as Lionel Messi and the Argentine team will not play in the state in 2026. Despite hopes built by local officials, the team’s schedule omits Kerala, leaving supporters yearning for the star's return.
Key Takeaways
- Argentina's schedule in 2026 does not include Kerala.
- Efforts to host Messi in Kerala have been extensive but unsuccessful.
- Kerala has a passionate football fan base, especially in Malappuram and Kozhikode.
- Messi's last appearance in India was in 2011.
- Local officials are committed to bringing international football to the state.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 16 (NationPress) Football enthusiasts in Kerala will have to hold off on seeing their beloved Lionel Messi and his World Cup-winning Argentine team grace the grounds of Kerala.
Last November, Kerala's Sports Minister V Abdurahiman and his team engaged in extensive discussions with the Argentina Football Association (AFA) following a meeting in Spain, leading to the announcement that Messi and his squad would play at least one international match in Kerala as part of their exhibition matches schedule. However, with the newly released schedule for Argentina in 2026, Kerala has been excluded, as the South American team is set to compete in China, Qatar, and Africa.
The last time Lionel Messi played in India was in 2011, during an international friendly against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. Among the excited fans present were numerous football aficionados from Kerala, including the current CPI(M) General Secretary, M.A. Baby, who attended to support Messi.
Notably, in the football-loving districts of Malappuram and Kozhikode, the Argentina national team has a significant following—an enthusiasm that has only grown since Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Abdurahiman, a local from Malappuram, has been relentless in his pursuit to bring Lionel Messi to Kerala. Last year, he led a delegation to Spain, declaring that the highly anticipated event would occur in the last quarter of 2026. Unfortunately, both Abdurahiman and the Kerala government’s dreams have been shattered, leaving football fans in the region in a state of longing.
Furthermore, Kerala is expected to hold elections in April/May 2026 for a new government, coinciding with the next edition of the FIFA World Cup scheduled for 2026.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the dedication shown by local authorities in their pursuit of bringing international football to Kerala. While disappointing, this news underscores the ongoing challenges in securing high-profile events in the region. The football community remains hopeful for future opportunities.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't Argentina play in Kerala in 2026?
Argentina's 2026 schedule includes matches in China, Qatar, and Africa, excluding Kerala.
When did Lionel Messi last play in India?
Lionel Messi last played in India in 2011 against Venezuela in Kolkata.
What efforts were made to bring Messi to Kerala?
Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman led discussions with the Argentina Football Association to schedule a match in Kerala.
How do fans in Kerala feel about this news?
Many fans are disappointed that they will miss the chance to see Messi play in their home state.
What impact does this have on football in Kerala?
This news may dampen enthusiasm temporarily, but Kerala's strong football culture remains vibrant.
