Kerala government submits confidential report on aborted Messi visit

Kerala's Sports Minister O J Janeesh announced that the state has concluded a confidential inquiry into the unrealised plan to host Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team. The report, compiled by the Sports Department Special Secretary after reviewing relevant documents, has been submitted to the government but will not be released publicly at this stage. The inquiry looked into compliance with rules for bringing an overseas team or player to India, with media reports suggesting it found serious procedural gaps, though officials declined to comment on specifics.

The controversy dates back to former Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, who repeatedly claimed the visit was secured and that a private sponsor, not the state, bore any costs. Abdurahiman rejected accusations of mishandling, asserting the agreement was between the Argentina Football Association and the sponsor, leaving the government without financial loss. Janeesh added that the broader aim is to develop local talent rather than merely host a single star.