Kerala investigation into failed Messi visit

An inquiry by the Kerala Sports Department has identified significant financial and procedural irregularities regarding a failed proposal to host Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team in the state. An initial report submitted to Chief Minister V D Satheesan suggested potential money laundering and violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, noting a lack of evidence that the Argentina Football Association (AFA) accepted the invitation or received a reported $15 million payment from the sponsor, Reporter Broadcasting Company (RBC).

The investigation highlighted a discrepancy of Rs 128 crore between project estimates and expected revenue, criticizing the previous administration for appointing RBC in a “non-transparent and arbitrary manner.”

Following these findings, the Kerala government established a five-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to further probe the matter. The SIT is examining claims that approximately ₹216 crore was transferred abroad through a US intermediary and is investigating a potential Goods and Services Tax (GST) liability of ₹22.68 crore. Authorities are scrutinizing bank records and administrative decisions, noting that a commercial brochure from the AFA may have been used to secure approvals in place of a legally binding tripartite agreement. Officials have clarified that Lionel Messi is not accused of any wrongdoing.