Kerala's Messi visit pitch returns ahead of Nilambur by-election

As Kerala prepares for the Nilambur assembly by-poll on June 19, the state government has once again floated the promise of a visit by Argentina's football team led by Lionel Messi. State Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman said that Argentine Football Association officials are expected to visit the state within two weeks to finalise details.

"We will make a joint announcement about Messi's schedule in Kerala once they arrive," Abdurahiman told ET. The buzz around Messi's proposed visit has persisted since early 2024, though clarity remains elusive.

Sources indicate that final confirmation is contingent on selecting a suitable stadium. Political observers believe the announcement, timed ahead of the by-poll, could sway football-loving voters in Nilambur-home to the football-crazy Malappuram region and several popular clubs.